On January 1st of this year I began using exclusively cold water when showering. I wasn’t sure how long this would last. Starting during the cold winter months wasn’t exactly the best timing for this experiment. Yet, I persevered and have stuck with it for almost an entire year.
When I turn on the shower there are no surprises. I know that the water is going to be ice cold. I know that I have no choice but to embrace the chill. Skirting around the edges, dipping in my toe only delays the inevitable. It is best to dive in, head first, to immerse myself in the freezing water.
It has been an exercise in mental toughness. I don’t know how else to explain it. The benefit has been most noticeable on the days when I don’t feel like fulfilling my (personal and/or work related) responsibilities. This time last year I wouldn’t have thought twice about it. Now, it isn’t even an option.
After reading about the benefits of cold showers I took the leap on January 1st. Three months have passed, unwavered...I still use nothing but cold water.
This month I decided to try intermittent fasting. My morning cardio is done in a fasted state so all I had to do was extend that a few more hours. How difficult could it be? Plenty difficult when your gym buddy shows up with a bakery bag containing a gorgeous Bismarck!
Yesterday was day one. Friday tends to be a busy day for me so the morning went by without a hitch. It was Noon before I knew it and the “feeding window” had opened. My initial game plan is to eat three meals (Noon, 4pm and 8pm) of equal caloric value. At 8pm the window closes.
There is a clear link between these two experiments. For most people reading this, your lives are filled with an abundance of choices...everything from what you watch, to where you go, what you eat and when you eat it...easily accessible...convenient.
This experiment is not rooted in deprivation, but rather discipline. Only time will tell if it ends or becomes a new way of doing things.
Stay tuned for an update...
