Kayla Lyons, a former addict, shares her experiences using cold exposure therapy as a way to manage her panic disorder and overcome her addiction to alcohol and drugs. This therapy, which includes methods such as ice therapy, cold showers, cryotherapy and ice baths, has helped Lyons regulate her emotions and release unpleasant sensations. She explains that when she has severe anxiety or panic attacks, cold helps her connect with physical sensations of cold rather than negative emotions.
Additionally, cold exposure therapy has been found to have several mental and emotional benefits such as: B. reducing inflammation and depression symptoms, releasing neurochemicals such as adrenaline and norepinephrine, as well as increasing happiness levels in the blood and regulating emotions. Lyons highlights the connection between inflammation and depression, explaining that high levels of inflammation in the body can affect how people respond to anti-depression treatments such as antidepressants. Cold exposure is known to suppress inflammation and improve sleep, which benefits people with depression.
Additionally, intentional exposure to cold releases neurochemicals such as adrenaline and dopamine, which can improve energy, concentration and pleasure. Cold exposure therapy combined with breathing exercises such as the Wim Hof method can help people develop mental strength, control their emotions and increase happiness levels.
According to Andrew Huberman, a professor at Stanford School of Medicine, cold exposure for just 11 minutes per week can provide these benefits. Cold exposure methods such as ice therapy, cold showers, and cryotherapy can easily be incorporated into your daily routine to reap these benefits. With its ability to regulate emotions, improve mental health and increase overall well-being, cold exposure therapy becomes an effective tool for people with mental health problems.
Definitions:
1. Cold Exposure Therapy: A therapeutic practice that involves intentionally exposing oneself to cold temperatures to achieve various physical, mental and emotional benefits.
2. Panic Disorder: A mental illness characterized by recurrent, unexpected episodes of intense fear or panic, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
3. Benzodiazepines: A class of medications prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Examples include Klonopin, Valium and Xanax.
