Operation Blue Nose: The Benefits of Embracing the Cold

og Entry: Today marks the 120th day of our mission, and the biting cold of the Arctic Circle continues to test our mettle. We stand shamelessly clad only in our shower shoes and skivvies onboard America's finest submersible vessel waiting our turn to climb down a cold steel torpedo tube, only to be sprayed by 20 degree salt water. It's initiation time, and the icy water hits us like a thousand needles, crystallizing every hair on our bodies. As I shiver uncontrollably, I can't help but hum the classic '70s tune "Cold As Ice" by Foreigner while I push away thoughts of being slowly cemented to the frozen steel. Just one more inch, just one more line of this song and soon I will be out.

Finally, freedom comes but as we all huddle together, desperately seeking warmth from the little body heat we have left it dawns on me— this is only obstacle one of twelve. We have eleven more frigid stages to go, each with their own bitter and bone-freezing twists that will have us begging for the warmth of our women. Yet, these Arctic obstacles may be harsh, but they cannot conquer us. Failure is not an option, for we are bound by duty, honor, and the unbreakable bond of brotherhood. Let us rise and move, brothers. Log Entry Closed.

Into the Ice: Benefits of Taking an Ice Bath

Whether you are onboard a naval vessel in the frozen reaches of the Arctic Circle undergoing the Blue Nose ceremony, or in a barrel filled with ice sipping on a Mai Tai in your backyard, there is an enigmatic feeling confronting the cold. It's a feeling of invigoration and challenge, testing your limits and freeing you to go beyond the barriers of your mind.

It may sound crazy at first but it should be no surprise that in our comfort-filled, temperature-controlled culture, getting into the cold will aid us in breaking down the toxic walls in our life while also giving us a tool to reap incredible health benefits. Recent studies and research have shown that getting into the cold can help in various areas, from athletic performance to your overall mood, such as:

• Reduce fatigue and muscle soreness
• Improve mood and sleep quality
• Aid in cardiovascular health
• Boost your immune system
• Overcome any predisposed limits [1] [2]

Through the cold, we discover the warmth within ourselves. The ice is our mirror, reflecting the strength and resilience that has always been inside us, waiting to be revealed. [Wim Hof]

The Science Behind Ice Baths

If you're still skeptical about the benefits of taking an ice bath or dreading the idea, let me hit you with some hard scientific evidence. A recent study published in the journal PLOS ONE found that taking regular cold water baths can significantly improve your cardiovascular function and reduce your risk of heart disease.

The study involved a group of healthy volunteers who were asked to take daily cold water baths for six weeks. After the six-week period, the researchers found that the participants had a significant increase in their heart rate variability, which is a marker of improved cardiovascular function. The participants also had a decrease in their levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that can contribute to heart disease. [3] [4]

So if you're looking to improve your cardiovascular health, adding a regular ice bath, shower, or plunge to your regimen could be a game-changer. However, it's important to note that taking an ice bath or plunge may not be suitable for everyone, and it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before trying it out.

Steps to Taking an Ice Bath

Now, its time to engage. Here are some tips to get your started.

1. Start with Warm Water:
   Warm or hot water can help to increase blood flow to your extremities, which can reduce the risk of shock or tissue damage when you transition to the cold water. This can also help to improve the effectiveness of the cold water therapy by increasing circulation and promoting faster healing.
2. Start With Your Arms and Legs:
   Putting your arms and legs into the cold water first will help acclimate your body before jumping full in.
3. Use Ice Packs:
   Instead of filling the tub with ice, use ice packs or bags of ice to gradually lower the water temperature. This can help control the temperature and reduce the risk of injury. And trust me, you don't want to hurt the boys.
4. Limit Time in the Bath:
   Don't go too long, guys. Limit your time in the ice bath to 60 seconds when you first start, and gradually increase over time. If you start shivering uncontrollably or feel uncomfortable, get out immediately. You don't want to become a human popsicle to see the benefits.
5. Breathe:
   Try doing a breathing exercise and/or focusing your mind on the success of what you are trying to accomplish. Breathing will help improve your body's ability to handle stress and can have added health benefits.

Challenge:

Commit to taking a plunge into the cold, awakening your senses and revitalizing your mind and body. See the Objective(s) for more ideas.

Objective(s):

1. Engage by gradually increasing your exposure to the cold, even if it is ending your showers with it.
2. Check out the journey of Wim Hof aka the "Ice Man" and his proven method.
3. Encourage family and friends to join you in the journey.
4. Breathe before you jump into the cold, as this will help increase the benefits and your overall experience. Check out this article for ideas.
5. Bake 5 to 15 minutes in a sauna before you take the plunge into the cold.
6. Sign-up for a polar plunge in your nearest lake or ocean during the winter or cooler seasons.
7. Visit a cryotherapy center if you have one in your town or nearby.