There are tips and methods for almost anything on social media platforms, particularly TikTok. Some are really bizarre and useless. Some are not recommended by experts and should be avoided, like bad skincare tricks. And yet others are incredibly helpful. An example would be putting freezing water on your face.
By triggering the diving response in mammals. Additionally, it may aid in the relief of nausea and hangovers, claims the Internet. Continue reading to find out more about it and how you can use the ice water technique.
What is the mammalian diving reflex?
Judy Ho, Ph.D., a clinical and forensic neuropsychologist, says that the diving response is a slowing of the heart rate (bradycardia), a narrowing of the blood vessels around the body (vasoconstriction), and a stop in breathing (apnea). It is thought that when it is turned on in an emergency situation where a person might drown, it will send blood to the heart and brain, which are the most important organs for living. The body’s natural response to being submerged in cold water is to stop breathing and slow the heart rate. This is done to save energy for life.
Dr. Ho says that the goal of using this method as a way to deal with stress is not to slow or stop breathing. When someone briefly touches cold water or other cold things, especially when the cold gets to the face and nose, a signal is sent to the vagus nerve. This nerve controls the parasympathetic nervous system, which is often called the “rest and relaxation” system.
Dr. Ho says that the parasympathetic nervous system controls and slows down breathing and heart rate, which makes most people feel calm. Additionally, he tells your brain and body that there is no urgency, which aids in relaxation and stress relief.
The nicest thing about this coping mechanism is how simple it is to execute; all you need is a bowl, some water, and ice. And according to Dr. Ho, it may help you calm down in a matter of seconds to minutes. Scroll down to find out how to accomplish it.
How to activate the backflow of diving with ice water
The steps are rather simple: first, fill a container with ice and water enough that it can comfortably accommodate your full face. After that, immerse your face for 10 to 15 seconds in the icy water. Iterate as necessary. Most essential, treat yourself well. Dr. Ho advises not diving to the extent that you begin to have breathing difficulty or drowning.
There are different ways to trigger the diving response if putting your face in cold water is uncomfortable or not possible at the moment (like if you were away from home). Dr. Ho advises using a cold washcloth or a small bag of ice cubes on your face. It also works to splash cold water on your face. Alternatively, take a cold shower. Also, putting ice on your wrists and temples might give you some relief in a pinch.
Any time you feel overwhelmed, under a lot of stress, nervous, or as if a panic attack is coming on, Dr. Ho advises utilizing this approach. Also, even if you’re not too worried or nervous, it might be a nice way to take care of yourself in the middle of a busy day, he says.
Another thing to keep in mind is that although most individuals may feel better using this method, certain people should exercise care or refrain from doing it at all. Dr. Ho says to talk to a doctor first if you have heart disease or a history of heart disease in your family, a low heart rate caused by medicine, shortness of breath, a fear of water, or any other serious health problem. before attempting this method on your own.
