Someone recently told me about a Mayo Clinic researcher who claimed that cold plunging triggers the same chemical response in the body as dying — and that, basically, you die a little every time you do it. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. Apparently, cold plunging is now a near-death experience, and there’s “no credible evidence” it offers any benefits. Right.

Look, I’m the first to say cold plunging isn’t a miracle cure. But this take is just flat-out absurd. So in this episode, I unpack exactly why that claim doesn’t hold water, as well as what’s really happening when you expose your body to the cold. 

The first time I ever stepped into near-freezing water, it was intense. But now? It’s mildly uncomfortable at worst. And the benefits I’ve seen firsthand are impossible to ignore. The reality is that like any hormetic stressor, cold exposure gets easier over time. 

You adapt. You become more resilient (mentally and physically). Your tolerance increases, your stress response improves, and you start to notice things like better energy, stronger immunity, and more emotional stability. That’s not dying. That’s growth.

Could you overdo it? Sure. But that’s true of anything. Done intelligently, cold plunging is one of the simplest, most accessible tools for building resilience and reclaiming your edge. You don’t need a double-blind trial to tell you what your body already knows.

So if someone tries to scare you off with talk of “chemical cocktails of death,” ignore the noise. Try it yourself. Start slow. Listen to your body. And maybe — just maybe — don’t take cold plunging advice from someone who’s never taken a cold shower in their life.

Learn more:

11 Cold Plunge Benefits [Stop Ignoring This Tool]: https://youtu.be/kOH6TpNDUfw 

Cold Plunges Saved My Mental Health—Here’s How [David Maus Jr]: https://youtu.be/E8o6H0h40XI 

50: Are Cold Exposure, Saunas, and Fasting Dangerous?: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/50-are-cold-exposure-saunas-and-fasting-dangerous-myths-debunked/

Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, Peluva!

Peluva makes minimalist shoes to support optimal foot, back and joint health. I started wearing Peluvas several months ago, and I haven’t worn regular shoes since. I encourage you to consider trading your sneakers or training shoes for a pair of Peluvas, and then watch the health of your feet and lower back improve while reducing your risk of injury. 

To learn more about why I love Peluva barefoot shoes, check out my in-depth review: https://michaelkummer.com/health/peluva-review/ 

And use code MICHAEL to get 10% off your first pair: https://michaelkummer.com/go/peluva 

In this episode:

00:00 - Intro

00:28 - The Mayo Clinic near-death claim

02:15 - Why that claim is ridiculous

02:54 - What cold plunging really feels like

04:07 - How to start cold plunging safely

05:51 - Hormesis: Getting stronger from cold

06:16 - Main benefits of cold plunging

08:57 - Final thoughts and what to ignore

Find me on social media for more health and wellness content:

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• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82

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[Medical Disclaimer]

The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health.

[Affiliate Disclaimer]

I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code.

#ColdPlunge #ColdTherapy #IceTherapy #ColdShower