Talking about taking a cold shower, there is something else I do. That is to alternate a cold shower and a hot bath. It is just like having a sauna and a cold bath back and forth, and you can do it at home.
Anyway, we have a bath every night in Japan. So, all I need to do is to take a cold shower during my bath time. Having a bath every night is a good way to bio-harmonize yourself.
It is said to
improve your blood circulation,
reduce arthritis pain,
relieve muscle pain,
improve your skin,
improve your mood,
reduce stress and anxiety,
lower your blood pressure,
reduce inflammation,
help you fall asleep faster.
and burn calories.
Especially the last 2 benefits can help your autophagy activation. The whole idea of fasting is to reduce your calories, and falling asleep faster can help activate autophagy further.
As I mentioned in Intermittent Digital Fasting, it is good not to use computers or smartphones 2 hours before going to bed, those 2 hours should be relaxation time with activities like reading books or listening to music. Having a bath is a perfect way of spending before bedtime.
So, I recommend having a bath at night whether you take a cold shower with it or not. Having a bath alone has plenty of benefits, and I think it is one of the Japanese secrets to longevity.
The Ikigai Diet: The Secret Japanese Diet to Health and Longevity
POD Paperback
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/4991064864
Kindle
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08JGB45HF