I have a daily habit that is super uncomfortable, yet I am committed to doing it. Why? Because the benefits far outweigh the few minutes of discomfort that I experience. I started taking cold showers a couple years ago. Cold water has a calming effect because it activates the vagus nerve which results in increased parasympathetic activity. I was experiencing crippling anxiety, so I was willing to give it a try. It didn’t get rid of the anxiety, but it definitely has a temporary calming effect.
I have never gotten used to that first blast of cold water, but I stick with it. After a couple of minutes, the body warms up. I stay in until I feel completely comfortable. When I get out I feel amazing. The body feels warm and energized and euphoric. The sensations last for at least 30 minutes. I love it. A hot shower is comfortable, but it doesn’t even come close to producing comparable benefits for me.
I’m talking about this today because I am stepping out of my comfort zone with some new activities, and I want the reminder that the discomfort won’t last forever. Like the cold showers, doing uncomfortable things can have an amazing impact. I’d rather be a little uncomfortable now, then live a mediocre, hot shower kind of life that feels safe.
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