Plunging, or repetitive cold water exposure, like cold showers or plunging pools, can offer various benefits from both Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western science perspectives. However, plunging too much, too often, or at the wrong time of day or season, can cause some unwanted side effects, according to TCM, especially in regard to Kidney function. So, you’re a committed plunger. I know. I’ve ran into a few of y’all. LOL. I get it. But as in ANY method, there has to be balance and appropriate usage. All the time, any time, everyday, with no counter balance to the excessive pathogenic factor of cold is a ticking time bomb for organic dysfunction.

Western Science Perspective On Plunging:

• Timing in Western Science: Western science doesn’t emphasize specific times of day for cold exposure. Instead, it focuses on the potential benefits and risks.
• Benefits in Western Science: Cold water immersion can help reduce inflammation, enhance circulation, and boost the immune system. It may also aid in muscle recovery and increase alertness. No parameters.
• Potential Harms in Western Science: Prolonged or excessively cold exposure can lead to hypothermia, vasoconstriction, and may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain medical conditions. Consult with doctor.
• Remedies in Western Science: To mitigate potential harm, gradually adapt to cold exposure, and avoid extreme temperatures. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns.

TCM Perspective On Appropriate Cold Water Plunging:

• Timing in TCM: TCM only recommends cold water exposure during the “Yang” phases, which is in the morning from 5 am to 9 am, and during the Summer Season, to balance, invigorate and strengthen the body’s Yang energy.
• Benefits in TCM: Plunging during this time can help stimulate and balance the body’s metabolic energy, improve circulation, and promote a sense of alertness.
• Potential Harms in TCM: Excessive or ill-timed cold exposure, especially in the evening, or winter time, can disrupt the body’s balance and weaken Yang energy. Doing the plunge everyday, or all year long, doesn’t allow for full body recovery. TCM looks to the Lunar Calendar for guidance on plunging intervals.
• Remedies For Harm in TCM: TCM suggests using Chinese herbs like Ginseng to support Kidney Yang (adrenal fatigue) and Kidney Essence (reproductive dysfunction) if cold exposure begins to adversely affect your health.

Signs and Symptoms of Excess Cold Exposure in TCM

Excess Cold can create a few different kinds of kidney problems. Below is a listing of the effects of cold on the body from a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective.

Effects of Cold in TCM:

1. Impaired Energy Flow:
   • Cold is considered to be contracting and can slow down the flow of Qi (vital energy) in the body. This can lead to stagnation, causing discomfort and pain.
2. Poor Blood Circulation:
   • Prolonged exposure to cold can lead to the stagnation of blood circulation, resulting in conditions like cold-induced pain or even more severe issues like frostbite.
3. Adrenal Fatigue / Yang Deficiency:
   • Cold is seen as yin in nature, and chronic exposure can deplete the yang energy in the body, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and a feeling of coldness.
4. Dampness Accumulation / Bloat:
   • Cold and dampness often go hand in hand. Cold can create a damp environment in the body, leading to conditions like edema, joint pain, and digestive issues.

TCM Syndromes (Diseases) Related to Cold Exposure:

1. Wind-Cold Invasion:
   • Symptoms include
   • chills, aversion to cold, body aches, and a runny nose.
   • This syndrome often occurs when the body is invaded by an external pathogen, virus, and cold weather and often wind is a significant factor.
2. Cold-Damp Invasion:
   • Symptoms include:
   • heavy sensation in the limbs, joint pain that improves with warmth, mental fog and overall sluggishness.
   • It often occurs when the body is exposed to a damp and cold environment like in Florida, or Seattle, or Maine.
3. Kidney Yang Deficiency:
   • Prolonged exposure to cold can deplete the yang (adrenal) energy of the kidneys, leading to symptoms such as cold limbs, fatigue, and frequent urination and sexual dysfunction.
4. Blood Stasis Due to Cold:
   • Cold can cause the blood to congeal and stagnate, resulting in conditions like cold-induced pain, especially in the joints or abdomen.

TCM Approaches to Address Cold Syndromes:

1. Warming Herbs:
   • Herbs like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves are used to warm the body and dispel cold.
2. Acupuncture:
   • Acupuncture points that warm the body and promote the smooth flow of Qi and blood are often utilized.
3. Moxibustion:
   • The use of moxa, made from dried mugwort, is employed to apply heat to specific points on the body, addressing cold conditions.
4. Dietary Adjustments:
   • Consuming warm and nutrient dense foods like soups & stews, avoiding excessive intake of cold and raw foods. (Check out my blog on Top 10 Nutrient Dense Foods.)

It’s important to note that TCM views the body as a holistic system, and treatment is often tailored to the individual’s unique constitution and symptoms. Incorporating both perspectives, a morning cold plunge during the Summer Season aligns with TCM’s emphasis on the importance of maintaining Yang energy.

It’s essential to listen to your body and adapt cold exposure to your individual needs and comfort level. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your wellness routine. If you’re experiencing health issues related to cold exposure, consulting with a qualified TCM practitioner can provide personalized guidance. Stay warm and well!

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*Article Credit: _{The author of this article utilized AI support for basic research queries, organization of reported data, and administrative assistance in typing the results. Thank you to the ChatGPT creators for making such a wonderful tool for small business owners. While I support unplugging and living a life closer to nature, AI can provide humans with the tools to do just that. Articles written without the use of AI assistance do not have * in the title. Enjoy those too!}