
Cold Thermogenesis
Cold thermogenesis is the practice of exposing the body to cold temperatures, eliciting various physiological responses that can potentially benefit health. It improves the regulation of our autonomic nervous system, which reduces Sympathetic Dominance, enabling our brain to better manage our daily stresses.
Cold exposure activates a stress response in the body involving intricate interactions between the nervous and endocrine systems. When we combine cold exposure with breathwork, we begin to gain an even greater degree of control over the body's ability to respond and adapt to stressors.
Cold exposure also triggers an increase in production of a range of hormones, activates brown adipose tissue (BAT), and increases our metabolic rate and skeletal muscle activity. This releases stored energy as heat and increases caloric expenditure which, in turn, fosters energy expenditure and fat burning. The production of norepinephrine, epinephrine, and cortisol, which are key players in metabolism and the stress response, also promotes lipolysis (the breakdown of stored fat) and increases the availability of fatty acids for energy production. This can contribute to weight loss and improved body composition.
Without cold exposure, our bodies may not activate BAT as efficiently, resulting in reduced calorie expenditure and potentially hindering fat burning. Additionally, the sympathetic nervous system may not be stimulated as effectively, leading to a lower metabolic rate and decreased skeletal muscle activity.
In addition to the metabolic and stress-related effects, cold thermogenesis has broader implications for health. It has been suggested to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose control, potentially benefiting individuals with conditions such as insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes. Cold exposure has also been associated with anti-inflammatory effects, which can have positive impacts on overall health and disease prevention.
While cold thermogenesis can offer potential health benefits, it is important to note that it may not be suitable for everyone which is why you should consult with an expert.