Don’t Mess About

In other words, go for it. Remind yourself that this is a beneficial experience, and step under the water. Get your head, front and back wet in one go. Like cold water swimming, it’s best to just dive in, rather than exposing yourself gradually. Focus on the cold, and try to see it a beneficial, healing energy, instead of freezing water.

Breathe

Naturally, you’ll need to breath. Start with rapid, shallow breaths before you step into the water. This will help psyche you up, and ensure a good oxygen supply. Most importantly, it’ll likely prevent you from hyperventilating when you do step into the water. After a few minutes of cold, you should find your heart rate slowing to a more comfortable pace.

Time Yourself

It’s fine to alternate between hot and cold, or to start warm and ease yourself down to cold. But for best results, go in cold and aim for 30 seconds. It’s harder than it sounds. Try this for a week, and when you’re ready, up it to one minute at the end of your shower. You’ll feel the benefits, and any more is just showing off. You aren’t Wim Hof, after all.