The things you can get up to living in the middle of nowhere and the benefits of cold exposure.
What to do when blissfully snowed in? Instead of focussing on the things I can’t do, and the appointments I had to cancel. I decided to create an experience for myself.
During the lockdown era, I invested in an infrared sauna. What an opportune time it was to focus more on being healthy.
My husband and I enjoyed some glorious days out on our bicycles, blessed with fantastic weather conditions. We cycled all day like kids for miles and miles in the countryside.
That era motivated us to change the direction of our lives. We sifted out everything we no longer needed. It felt like we had reached a pivotal juncture in life, and we went on the search for deeper meaning.
It’s easy to find superficial treasure in shallow water, but finding the good stuff takes some deep diving into the depths of your soul. Moving away from society into nature was a big move, but there are just as many, if not more things to do when living out in the countryside -Like Snow bathing.
In Siberia, schools prioritise the importance of snow bathing. The kindergarten children are reportedly happier, healthier and more resilient due to outdoor exposure to the cold temperatures.
This morning, we woke up to more snow. We live up a long winding farm track, so it’s doubtful that we are getting out this week.
I ate breakfast as usual in my office (bed) with a hot pot of steaming coffee, thinking about how I intended to spend the day. I decided on a workout, sauna, and a snow bath.
Before I did my workout I pottered about feeling a little reluctant. I know overthinking exercise routines leads to excuses. As a former fitness coach, there was never an option to not feel like it or not teach because I felt off that day. My role was to motivate and lead, and I took it very seriously.
I carry this mantra with me today, like the well-known shoe brand- “Just do it”
Sporting fitness tights and a top, I do a weighted workout. Next, I enjoy an infrared sauna for 30 minutes before excitedly running outside to bathe in the snow. I did this routine twice, ensuring I felt the harsh bite of the snow against my skin, then running indoors chuckling to myself before jumping back into the sauna as fast as I could to experience the glorious kiss of warmth again.
One of the great things about living in the countryside is having the pure freedom to strip off and roll in the snow. Years ago if someone said I was crazy I would feel wounded and hurt, today I fully embrace being the semi-naked bonkers woman who can be seen from a distance rolling in snow on the top of the hill.
Potential Benefits To Cold Exposure
- Less muscle soreness: Studies indicate that short periods of cold water immersion after exercise can reduce muscle soreness in athletes.
- Faster cooldown if you’re overheated: Cold immersion cools off overheated individuals twice as fast.
- May ease symptoms of depression: Case studies show that cold open water swimming may help with depression and anxiety.
- A boost to the immune system: Studies show cold water therapy may stimulate the immune system, and support the body to fight illness.
- Weight loss potential: Some studies suggest that immersion in cold water can speed up metabolic rate. Korean women who dive in cold waters, show higher basal metabolic rates during winter months.
- Improved circulation: While more research is needed, supporters believe that cold water therapy can improve circulation.
- Deepened sleep: Supporters report that cold water therapy may contribute to deeper sleep.
- Increased energy levels: Although more research is needed most people report an increase in their energy levels.
- Glowing Skin: Your skin will temporarily glow with rosy red cheeks, health and vitality.
Safety Considerations
Safety is an important consideration when it comes to cold water or snow immersion. The practice can potentially cause serious stress on your heart. It is always best to seek advice from a doctor, and begin with a no more than a minute, building yourself up to a few minutes.
I have personally experienced over exposure to the cold in open water. Always partner with someone to monitor you. Early symptoms of hypothermia are intense shivering, slurred speech and mumbling. It can feel like you’ve had a few too many alcoholic beverages.
Before trying cold water immersion, check with your doctor to make sure it’s safe for you. Ensure you aware of your own health conditions and the associated risks. Keep immersions very short — just a few minutes is enough to gain health benefits without unwanted risks.
Afterwards wrap up really warm and drink a hot naturally sweetened beverage to warm you up.
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