What's Up Docs? Doctors' Notes: Hot and Cold Therapies
Nov 18, 2025
Dr. Heather Massey, an Associate Professor of extreme environments and physiology, dives into the fascinating world of cold-water immersion and contrast therapy. She discusses her own experiences with outdoor swimming and explains the physiological responses to cold exposure, including the cold shock response. Heather elaborates on the potential mental benefits of cold-water swimming, such as reduced anxiety and increased resilience. However, she also cautions about the risks of extreme exposure and highlights the importance of safety and community in these practices.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Arctic Dip Triggered Lasting Euphoria
- Chris jumped into Arctic seawater at −1°C for a minute and felt intense fear while immersed.
- Less than an hour later he felt elated and had days of well-being afterward.
Short Winter Dips And Bacon Butty Rituals
- Heather swims once or twice weekly in winter for 2–5 minutes and often attends with friends.
- She sometimes admits she goes mainly for social ritual and beach bacon butties, then dips when conditions allow.
The Cold Shock Gives A Brief High
- The initial cold shock causes a gasp, rapid breathing, raised heart rate and hormone surge that peaks in ~30 seconds.
- Heather suspects that brief initial immersion drives the euphoric 'high' many swimmers report.