Cold-Water Swimming: Potential Mental Health Benefits and Safety Warnings
Dr. Mark Harper, an anesthesiologist and avid cold-water swimmer, believes in the potential mental health benefits of the activity. However, while evidence is growing, scientific confirmation remains elusive. Dr. Mike Tipton, a physiologist who has studied extreme environments, warns of the risks involved.
Harper and Tipton, both experts in their fields, stress the importance of safety when engaging in cold-water immersion. They advise medical screening and swimming in life-guarded areas. Harper points to the biological phenomenon of hormesis, suggesting that the stress of cold-water immersion could have clinical uses in treating depression. To potentially gain benefits, entering water at 20-15°C (68-59°F) and staying for a few minutes is sufficient.
Harper recalls his first cold-water swim 20 years ago in the south of England, describing the initial shock followed by a positive sensation. Tipton, however, warns that humans are not well-suited to cold water, making immersion stressful and potentially risky. He advises against long spells in an ice bath due to the risk of damage to small nerves and blood vessels. The practice of cold-water immersion has been claimed to have benefits for centuries, with historical figures like Thomas Jefferson endorsing its use.
While cold-water immersion may offer potential mental health benefits, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Both Harper and Tipton emphasize the importance of medical screening and swimming in safe environments. Further scientific research is needed to confirm these potential benefits and understand the risks involved.
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