Fresh Starts: A Shower First For Attention and Mindful Practices

As we navigate through the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of responsibilities and worries. However, amidst the chaos, it's crucial to find moments to wash away the concerns of the day and start afresh. One way to achieve this is by showering as a mindful practice to add into our routines, setting the stage for a calmer and more focused mindset for exercising.

Back view on Caucasian young naked woman washing blonde hair with shampoo in shower. (n.d.). Envato Elements. Retrieved June 27, 2024, from https://elements.envato.com/back-view-on-caucasian-young-naked-woman-washing-b-FMLGWRU

Starting Anew with Mindfulness

Picture this: you begin your workout with a fresh start before engaging in a mindful practice like yoga or meditation. By doing so, you create space for tranquility and self-reflection, allowing yourself to set positive intentions for the day or evening ahead. These moments of peace not only help in centering your thoughts but also aid in enhancing your overall wellBEing.

Resetting Your Mind and Body

Have you ever considered that something as simple as a cold shower can reset your vagus nerve and promote a sense of clarity and focus? (see a short list of shower benefits below) So, the next time you feel overwhelmed, consider taking a refreshing cold shower to reset both your mind and body. With clarity of mind, you can attain deeper focus which enhances physical performance..

Mastering the Art of Attention

In a world filled with distractions, mastering the art of attention is becoming increasingly essential. Focused attention not only boosts productivity but also aids in combating stress and anxiety. By honing your ability to focus, you can tackle tasks with greater efficiency and clarity, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and accomplished day.

I have encountered unpleasant body odors or loud fragrances in a yoga class and it completely ruins my ability to participate with the attention I love to give to my practice. And truly avoid synthetic fragrances - the chemicals bring about an entire other type of disruption that I prefer to live without.

Sound Science for Cold or Hot Shower

By incorporating this mindful practice into your exercise routine, you pave the way for a more centered and intentional lifestyle. From starting your workout with a fresh perspective to embracing the power of focused attention, each step contributes to a holistic approach towards overall wellness and self-care.

Water Temperature

Cold Shower: 50°F - 60°F (adjust temperature to where the coolness is comfortable to you)

Warm - Hot: Adjust temperature to where the warmth is comfortable to you - do not burn yourself

Cold Shower Benefits

Improves Energy

Boosts Immunity

Increases Circulation

Anti-depressive

Boosts Metabolism (not a replacement for regular physical exercise

Reduce Muscle Soreness and Fatigue

Hot Shower Benefits

Burns Calories (not a replacement for regular physical exercise)

Improves Quality of Sleep

Reduces Stress

Soothes Stiff Joints

Remember, every moment presents an opportunity for growth and renewal. Embrace each new beginning with an open heart and a clear mind.

A Yogi Bonus

Try both a Shower and Brushing your teeth before a yoga session. Then seal the end of your workout with another shower.

Showering before a yoga class enhances your practice in multiple ways. By taking a moment to reset and refocus, we can take our workout deeper and with greater clarity and purpose. Remember, the art of attention is a skill that can be honed over time, leading to a more enriched and fulfilling life.

Begin your journey towards mindful living today and embrace the power of fresh starts.

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Endnotes

Hame, S. (2023, January 25). 6 cold shower benefits to consider. UCLA Health. https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/6-cold-shower-benefits-consider

Shevchuk NA. Adapted cold shower as a potential treatment for depression. Med Hypotheses. 2008;70(5):995-1001. doi: 10.1016/j.mehy.2007.04.052. Epub 2007 Nov 13. PMID: 17993252.

Kox M, van Eijk LT, Zwaag J, van den Wildenberg J, Sweep FC, van der Hoeven JG, Pickkers P. Voluntary activation of the sympathetic nervous system and attenuation of the innate immune response in humans. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2014 May 20;111(20):7379-84. doi: 10.1073/pnas.1322174111. Epub 2014 May 5. PMID: 24799686; PMCID: PMC4034215.

Esperland D, de Weerd L, Mercer JB. Health effects of voluntary exposure to cold water - a continuing subject of debate. Int J Circumpolar Health. 2022 Dec;81(1):2111789. doi: 10.1080/22423982.2022.2111789. PMID: 36137565; PMCID: PMC9518606.

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Tyra Ware, CHHP CIr CH AT RYT

A Clinical Herbalist who's passionate about Medical Herbalism and Aromatherapy for health care. She partners with her fiancé at bZengi offering healing arts services to clientele worldwide.  She enjoys yoga, listening to music, reading, mystery and action films, learning languages and developing culinary creations and spending time with her fiancé.  You can learn more about her work at www.bzengi.net.