If you want to improve your health, now's the time to take the plunge. Cold plunges are a great way to improve your health. You might not know it, but cold plunges can provide quite a few health benefits. Cold plunges reduce inflammation, relieve stress, and soothe chronic pain. They can also help you stay young. If you've never taken a cold plunge before, you do need to prepare. Preparation helps you get the best results from the experience. Read the list below. Here are three tips to help you prepare for your first cold plunge. 

Start Slow With The Cold 

If you're ready to take the plunge, you might think you need to start with the coldest water. That's not the case. It's a good idea to start slow. When you lower the temperature over several sessions, you give your body time to adjust to the cold. Starting in the coldest water is like running a marathon without any training. You won't get the benefits and you could injure your body. Instead, lower the temperature a bit more with each session. That way, you train your body to accept the cold. 

Focus on Your Breathing

If you're preparing for your first cold water plunge, make sure you focus on your breathing. When you take a cold plunge, you want to keep your breathing steady and deliberate. You also want to take slow, deep breaths. Start with a cleansing breath before getting into the water. Always breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth when taking a cold plunge. Continue this breathing pattern while you're in the water. Focused breathing helps you regulate your body temperature. 

Take an All-In Approach

When it comes to cold plunges, you want to take the all-in approach. That means you want to immerse your entire body in the water. That should include your neck. You might think you can stop at your chest or shoulders. That's not the case though. Immersing your entire body increases the health benefits you get from a cold plunge. It also improves temperature regulation for your body. It's also a good idea to give your face a quick dip into the water. Cold water is good for your complexion. Plus, dipping your face in the water helps your body adjust to the cold faster. 

Embrace the cold. If you're ready for a cold plunge, use the tips here to prepare for your first session.