Here at Seashell, we do a lot of cold water therapy. For those who may not know what this is, it involves exposing oneself to cold water for a period of time, typically for health or wellness benefits.
This practice has gained a lot of popularity in the last couple of years for various different reasons which differ from person to person. 
Many people are now seeing and feeling the benefits which include the ability to improve immune function, reduce inflammation, and increase mental clarity. However, it is important to acknowledge that cold water therapy can also be a physically and mentally challenging experience, and building resilience is essential for practicing it safely and effectively. 

Resilience can be defined as the ability to adapt and bounce back from adversity or challenging situations. In the context of cold water therapy, resilience is necessary to withstand the discomfort and potential physical stress that can come with immersing oneself in cold water. It is also essential for maintaining a positive mindset and avoiding negative psychological effects that may arise from the experience. 

One reason why resilience is important in cold water therapy is that exposure to cold water can be physically demanding. When the body is submerged in cold water, it experiences a number of physiological changes. Blood vessels constrict, which can increase blood pressure and reduce blood flow to certain areas of the body. This can lead to feelings of discomfort, numbness, and even pain. 

In doing cold water therapy, we are usually putting ourselves in a controlled situation that can often feel uncomfortable at first. As time goes on, we realise that the water doesn't actually feel too cold as our body and brain adapt and settle so we can continue.
This is a really interesting way of practicing resilience. There may be situations in the future which can be difficult and you may think you cannot get through. If you then think back to your cold water therapy you then take what you have learned into these other situations.
You know that you can get through and it will be okay.

It is important to know that in order to practice cold water therapy safely and effectively, it is important to build physical resilience by gradually increasing exposure time and acclimating to the cold over time. This can help prevent injury and minimize discomfort, allowing individuals to experience the benefits of cold water therapy without compromising their physical health. You don't want to push yourself to much so that you get ill.

In addition to the physical resilience, it is important to slowly build up the cold water therapy so that you don't put yourself off.
Yes building resilience often requires being in a little discomfort however pushing yourself too hard too soon can have a negative affect. You do not want to traumatise yourself. Cold water is hard as it is so allow yourself the space and time to build it slowly. We want to challenge ourselves but we can do it small ways.

Building mental resilience involves cultivating a positive mindset and learning to regulate one's emotions in response to stress. This can be achieved through practices such as meditation, deep breathing, and visualization. By learning to manage negative thoughts and emotions, individuals can approach many of life's challenges with a sense of calm and confidence, reducing the likelihood of psychological distress. 

You may actually find that getting into cold water is a fantastic way to put all of the above into practice as you are in the water. Many are taking to pods or barrels to take a dip. This is a great idea as you are able to develop your resilience from the comfort of your own home. It is a safe space, you are able to get warm quickly if you need to and you can stay in the cold water longer if you would like and you can do it in a safe way rather than out in the wilderness for example.

Finally, it is important to acknowledge that resilience is not something that can be developed overnight. Building resilience takes time and effort, and it requires a commitment to self-care and self-improvement. However, the benefits of developing resilience can extend far beyond cold water therapy, and can have a positive impact on all areas of life. 

Top tip:
Write down some things you have always wanted to do but have been too scared. It could be anything. When you have the time, pick one and get out there to try do it. See what happens when you are out there and how your mind and body can handle it. Over the Summer, see how many you can tick off that list.
After doing cold water therapy, many people say that doing other "scary" activities becomes easier to control and manage.

Make sure you know your limits and be safe with what you are doing. Make sure to be with people, dress appropriately, have the right kit and enjoy it!

In conclusion, while cold water therapy can offer a number of health and wellness benefits, it is important to approach it with a focus on resilience. By building physical and mental resilience, individuals can safely and effectively practice cold water therapy, experiencing the benefits without compromising their health or well-being. Ultimately, the ability to adapt and bounce back from challenging experiences is an essential skill that can help individuals thrive in all aspects of life.