AHS22

The uniform environmental comfort afforded by central heating systems is a recent innovation in the timespan of human evolution. Early humans migrating to higher latitudes and altitudes had to contend with colder climates, driving genetic, physiological, and cultural adaptations. Regular exposure to the cold activates a number of beneficial responses including reduced inflammation, enhanced immunity, fat loss, and mood enhancement. By insulating ourselves from the cold and holing up in temperature-controlled homes and offices, we forgo these hormetic benefits. In recent decades, there has been a resurgence of interest in practices such as cold showers, open-water swimming, whole body cryotherapy, and cold yoga. Since the very idea of deliberate cold exposure is abhorrent to many, I'll review my own experience and provide some practical tips on gentler ways to increase your tolerance for cold and even embrace it with joy.