How to boost dopamine and endorphins to feel better with cold baths

How to boost dopamine and endorphins to feel better with cold baths

 

Why you feel like a superhero after a cold bath

After just a few minutes in ice-cold water, magic happens in the brain.
Dopamine - the neurotransmitter that controls motivation, focus and reward - takes off.

Research shows that dopamine levels can increase by up to 250% - and this effect lasts for several hours.

Plus, authoritative health source FoundMyFitness summarized the same study and clearly stated that norepinephrine levels increased by 530% and dopamine by 250% with 1 hour of cold water exposure.

The result?

That's why so many cold bathers say:
"I kind of feel new in my head afterwards."

What do endorphins do?

Endorphins = the body's own pain relief + happiness pills in one.
They are released during physical stress - like cold water.

When they kick in, you feel it:

It's like a runner's high... but without the need to run.

Bonus: Other happiness hormones affected by cold baths

serotonin

noradrenaline

Together, they create a chemical cocktail that leaves you feeling alert, calm and satisfied - naturally.

Does it have to be ice cold? How long should you bathe?

No, it doesn't have to be extreme.
Water between 8-12 degrees is plenty.
Start with 30-60 seconds - it's better to bathe often than for a long time.

Continuity beats extreme cold.

Better 30 seconds a day for 30 days - than 5 minutes once every two weeks.

 

👉 Pro-tip: Combine with breathing exercises for extra effect