Cold water’s changing my life - it can do the same for you…?

Have you ever found yourself standing on a beach at sunrise, contemplating a plunge into an ice bath? No??

Well, I have, and let me tell you, it's more than just a test of willpower; it's a lesson in forming new habits.

A habit in the making

My journey into cold showers and ice baths began with my wife who, incidentally, still hasn’t taken a single cold shower in her life. But that aside, she suggested it would make me feel great, and I thought, what the heck?

It sounds crazy at first – who in their right mind voluntarily chooses to make themself feel uncomfortably cold? But here's the thing: embracing the cold is as much about a physical response as it is about a mental one and thus understanding how you can rewire your habits.

The science behind the shiver

Neuroscience says habit formation is a three-part loop: cue, routine, and reward. In my case, the cue is usually a small child waking me up long before I want to be awake, the routine is the icy hit of the shower or bath, and the reward? That invigorating, energized feeling that lasts the whole day.?

But there's still more to it than that. Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP) suggests that by changing your language and behaviour patterns, you can alter your neurological processes. In simple terms, by repeatedly telling myself "this is refreshing, not painful," I am rewiring my brain to see these shiver-inducing moments as a positive habit.

From ice baths to life

How does this all relate to you, a professional seeking positive change in your life? Well, it's about understanding that habit formation isn't just the action itself; it's about the mindset. Whether it's taking cold showers, waking up an hour earlier, or dedicating time to read, it's the small, consistent actions that lead to significant transformations. It's about connecting the dots between what we do daily and where we want to be in the long term.

The ripple effect of a single habit

Since incorporating this routine into my life, I've noticed something really interesting. The discipline and resilience I’m developing from this one habit have spilled over into other areas – better time management, more focused work sessions, and an overall sense of increased productivity. It's fascinating how a habit that starts with a physical action can lead to mental and emotional growth.

The power of habitual 'cold' courage

So, what's the takeaway from my watery escapades? It's simply that stepping out of your comfort zone, even if it means into a cold shower, can be the start of a transformative journey. It's not about the cold itself; it's about what the process teaches you.

I challenge you to find your 'ice bath' – that one habit that pushes you out of your comfort zone. Start small, stay consistent, and watch out for the subtle changes, leading you to new heights in any walk of your life. And who knows, maybe one day, I'll see you on the beach at dawn, ready to take the plunge!