There is a vivid image that comes to mind when I think of "taking the plunge". I imagine someone getting married, taking on a new job, moving to a new city. The term "taking the plunge" is an expression that means to take a significant risk, often involving a major life decision. The history of the term is unclear but it is believed to have originated from the act of jumping into a pool or body of water.
Every day I run across some form of encouragement or motivational phrase that is meant to push the reader towards change. I see social media posts about quitting your 9-5 job and starting a business. I see families packing up a modified van and hitting the road with their five children to experience a minimalist lifestyle. I see parents taking their children out of public school and building communities around home education and more often than the above I see the ads that promise total mind body transformation through a daily ritual of exercise, shakes, pills, classes, accountability groups and subscriptions.
There is an overwhelming amount of information to soak in, and ultimately feel the pressure to take the plunge.
What if we did just that? What if we took the plunge? What if we literally jumped into a pool or body of water?
Cold plunging, also known as cold water immersion or cold therapy, involved immersing your body in cold water for a short period of time. Cold plunging has been used for centuries in various cultures for its health benefits. In recent years, it has gained popularity among athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and wellness seekers.
Here are some of the benefits of cold plunging:
Reduces inflammation and pain, boost immune function, improve circulation, enhance mental clarity and focus and promotes better sleep.
I am always up for a challenge, especially when it involves action that creates positive personal change. I believe in daily rituals and I have seen the benefits of mindful and intentional self care.
We all crave the feel good, we all seek the change and if we are being honest we all know that transformation comes through ritual, it comes through habit. So while cold plunging may not be a big risk; it may not be a life changing practice; it quite possibly could be a daily choice that leads to the change you are seeking.
So grab your cup of Haste and dive into the benefits of cold plunging.