There are those of us near the lakeshore who will avoid the snow-covered beach during the winter months. It’s too windy. Too brisk. It’s simply too cold. We’ll stay cooped up in the warmth of our homes either next to the fireplace or under a cozy blanket and anxiously await the summertime. 

And then, there are some of us who view this time of year as more of an opportunity—to lean into the winter rather than to escape it—and submerge themselves into cold waters (kind of like a polar bear). 

Welcome to the era of the cold plunge, one of the trendiest wellness practices of this decade. 

What Is a Cold Plunge?
The cold plunge is essentially the brief immersion into cold water for a total of a mere few minutes. And before you say it, yes, the goal is not for comfort; it’s to impose intentional, controlled stress onto the body that will trigger it to experience a flurry of responses that can lead to numerous health benefits (if that sounds any more enticing to you). 

Those few minutes spent in a cold tub (or lake) can release adrenaline, boost circulation, and activate stress-response systems, leaving you feeling alert, energized, and even euphoric.

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The cold can also aid in muscle recovery from soreness or inflammation, especially after intense exercise. For more information on these types of benefits, visit the rundown presented by The Mayo Clinic. 

Though, it’s important to note that the practice isn’t for everyone. There are definitely risks—such as cold shock, rapid breathing, and hypothermia. So just be careful of two things when plunging: water temperature and length of the session. 

Why Are Cold Plunges Trending? 
Have you ever done something just because you feel cool afterwards? And that wasn’t meant to be a joke. Seriously though, the hype afterwards is likely the reason we choose to do something even if it’s not safe, fun, or entertaining. 

That’s kind of what a cold plunge is. You’re definitely not having fun soaked in freezing water for five minutes. You’re definitely not being entertained when the only thing you can feel is your toes about to fall off. And honestly, some of us will say it’s not even safe because, what if my toes literally fall off?

Because we’ve all been there—scrolling through social media, seeing someone like Tom Brady hitting the gym and then taking a deep dive into a polar plunge—thinking, Huh, I wonder if that’s something I should do. When really we shouldn’t be doing it. 

But what was once reserved for elite athletes and professional polar swimmers has now become a staple to some people’s recovery routines, spa menus, and even a method to maintain basic wellness. 

So, should you do it?

Here’s the naked truth: cold plunges aren’t necessary for health, but they can be a refreshing aid to your wellness routine.

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If you’re someone who pushes the limits during a workout or wants a natural mood enhancement, then a cold plunge might be for you. 

But it’s definitely something that takes time to adjust to. Some of us might say, “I take cold showers every now and then”—even though we all know that’s not true—so actually stepping into a cold tub definitely feels less likely to occur. 

For most people, adding a cold plunge into their routine takes a few weeks to work up to the perfect amount of sessions. At first, it may be taking a dip once or twice a week for about a minute. It’ll take some time to get used to the cold. Then increase the length of time, say maybe work up to three or five minutes. If you’re really unsure about the cold plunge, start with the cold showers (and actually follow through) and see how your body responds. And trust me, the clarity you experience directly after stepping out of that cold shower is worth the singular minute spent shivering. 

Are You A Little More Adventurous? 
If you’re a thrill-seeker, you might want to join a cold plunge group or even go solo. There are actually people who voluntarily jump into Lake Michigan in the middle of the winter. Yup, and in the full summer attire of a bathing suit and perhaps a beanie (to match the winter aesthetic). If you’re someone who shivers just looking out the window at the snow piles, then you might want to sit this one out while under the comfort of a fuzzy blanket. 

But for those who do brave the icy waters, the appeal goes beyond just the shock. It might seem like something you’d only do so you can answer the question, “What did you do today?” with, “Oh, you know—woke up, ate some breakfast, jumped in the lake, and then read a book.” Meanwhile, your friend on the other end of the phone sits there playing two truths and a lie about your morning routine. Which one’s the lie: jumping into the lake or reading the book?

So why do people do it?
Beyond just saying you did it, cold plunging is praised for its flurry of benefits. It’s uncomfortable, sure—but that discomfort is exactly what makes the experience feel rewarding once it’s over. And so, the cold plunge probably isn’t going anywhere anytime soon—there’s a little something for everyone.

Whether it’s mental clarity, recovery support, or a new way to practice discipline, the cold plunge delivers for anyone who is brave enough to hop into a lake next to floating ice.