Once again I have taken on the mission of befriending the cold. I have done this experiment in the past for a 3 month period. Everyday, for 3 months, I committed to taking all my showers in freezing cold water. Like the cold water that comes out of the faucet as soon as the water flows, not that half way mark cold. And starting again I wanted to take on this practice. 

Along with its many benefits, cold showers (a form of cold therapy) has been really nice for giving me a morning wake up as I have given up coffee and caffeine altogether during this quarantine period. But that's not what this post is about. 

It’s only been 4 days, but you would think that with a history of running this experiment it would come easier this time around. “What’s up cold? You remember me?” and as soon as I turn the faucet on there is a resounding “no” echoing through my cells.

Honestly, it’s just cold water. Yet I have a mini pep talk each time before entering. With that said I do think that the time to action period has shortened from the first experiment but damn. 

It’s funny because after 10 seconds in the water, I feel so happy to be in it and so alive. So why all the hesitation before entering when I take the time to keep the positive benefits top of mind before entering?

The fear of discomfort. Fear of discomfort if we are not careful can stop of from taking action in so many ways. Our minds are very smart and know how to create “reasons” (read excuses) to hinder us from taking the actions that we have claimed commitment to. The fear literally hijacks your brain. But it doesn't have to.

It’s important for us to remember that fear is not a bad feeling. Fear is an indication of where we are hitting the walls of our comfort zone. Fear can also be an indication to where we are meeting the unknown. In this sense, it’s important to remember that fear is not an indication of danger but a biological response to your aversion for discomfort. When we reach this border within ourselves, fear can arise. But all it doesn't have to stop. 

Like a muscle, your response to your discomfort and the unknown can shift through practice. This cold shower practice is one of them. It reminds you each time that you can make decisions to take committed actions despite your fear and despite your current aversion to discomfort.

Why is it important that we make a practice of remodeling the way we address fear?

Because if you always and only do the things that make you feel comfortable you will never: 

- have those important conversations

- take those important steps to change your health

- commit to your fitness regime

- speak up on our values 

and most importantly, you will never become the person that you have the potential to become this lifetime. 

Fear is just a sign of where your boundaries are, how you decide to act is a sign of who can become. Never limit your potential.