Ice Bath Treatment for Anxiety

Originally conceived in Chinese medicine, "ice baths" or cold baths/showers are a possible, natural remedy for anxiety attacks.

What an Ice Bath Does

• The Body's Goal is to Keep Core Temperature Stable

  The body's response to cold water is the same as its response to cold air, though the process happens 32 times faster in water. Blood vessels in the arms, legs, toes, and fingers will contract, so that the body's blood supply is forced to stay mostly in the torso and head.

How an Ice Bath May Calm an Anxiety Attack

• Athletes Use Cold to Prevent Muscle Strain and Soreness

  The reasoning goes thus: Athletes often use cold baths after great exertion in order to cool down and prevent muscle strain. An anxiety attack is somewhat analogous, as the sufferer often experiences trembling, flushed skin, and rapid, shallow breathing.

Evidence?

• There are currently no medical studies which conclusively support cold baths as a remedy for anxiety. The evidence to support this treatment are anecdotal only.

What Constitutes an Ice Bath?

• Proponents suggest a cold tap water bath 12 inches deep for no more than 4 minutes, and stress that immersion should take place slowly to prevent shock. Wrapping yourself in a warm blanket afterward is also suggested.

In Conclusion

• Be Safe! Avoid Hypothermia!

  Recently, cold baths have become more popular as a natural treatment for anxiety attacks. Though there is as yet no medical evidence to support this, there are some who have found cold baths to be helpful. Care should be taken to prevent shock and/or hypothermia.