The sleep-wake cycle is significantly influenced by body temperature, and before going to bed each night, human bodies naturally cool down. Researchers have shown that baths and showers can influence sleep by altering this natural process of temperature control. A evening shower may assist tell your brain it’s time to go to sleep if it’s a part of your bedtime routine. According to research, taking a shower before bed may have additional advantages.
With varying degrees of success, researchers attempted to use cold showers to maximize body temperature for sleeping. The invigorating qualities of cold water may prevent cold showers from promoting better sleep. Immersion in cold water increases norepinephrine and cortisol levels. Cortisol plays a role in raising cortisol levels and, in turn, alertness levels. While not all of these advantages have been proven by science, cold showers improve blood flow for healthier skin and hair and elevate mood.
