Growing up, I could never get enough hot water in the shower. I think it had to do with hormones. In retirement, hormones are probably no longer a factor and my chiropractor suggested taking more cold showers to improve alertness and stimulating the nervous system. My first thought was hot woman -cold shower. However, in a 55-plus community, hot is a relative term. 

A cold shower certainly makes sense in dealing with the Florida heat and saving on electricity. I’ve decided to give it a try and find it to be quite refreshing. Without the suggestion, I probably would have continued to turn up the heat. Habits are hard to break. I also prefer a cold pool, but my wife differs (even though she’s always hot!) We keep our pool heater at 85-degrees, and it rarely operates during the summer months.  I’ve also always enjoyed a hot sauna followed by a quick dip in icy water. To each their own!

Once again, I was a sweaty mess after this morning’s run and couldn’t wait to get in the pool. I then did a painting project between dips, along with some reading, and didn’t get my cold shower in until late afternoon. In retirement, particularly on hot days, there’s no rush anymore, since every time you step outside it’s a steam bath. Instant sweat! It won’t cool down until after dinner and our nightly golf cart trek. Current thinking: hot day – cold shower.