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As temperatures drop heading deeper into fall, it's tempting to turn up the heat in your shower. But more and more evidence shows you need to resist that urge -- for your own health as much as the enviroment's health.

It's true: There are far more health and environmental benefits to taking cold showers than warm ones. Scientists have found chilly water revitalizes the entire body, as uncomfortable as it may be.Here are a few other benefits to a cold shower.

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It Might Help You Lose Weight

Recent studies have shown that exposure to cold temperatures can help with weight loss,but it's not just cold air that can help you achieve fitness goals.

Turning down the water temperature in the tub , according to a study from the Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston.

You'll Be Less Stressed

"Cold water with happy, sparkly neurotransmitters," said a Fast Company report. That could help relieve your stress and even help in the fight against depression, the report added.

Scientists. Their subjects reported an improved mood and memory after exercising in the cold water, and while the exercise itself may have been a factor in the dopamine release, the water played a role as well, experts said.

When the cold water hits your body, it opens all kinds of pathways for dopamine to be released, which will make you happier once you eventually get over the initial anger of being ambushed by freezing water.

Muscles Will Heal Faster

Athletes take ice baths after sporting events, and you should take a cold shower after exerting yourself. It's known to help muscles heal faster, even if you're not submerging the body.

The cold water , shortening recovery time, according to HowStuffWorks.com. It'll also minimize the chance of painful muscle inflammation caused by small tissue tears that occur during a workout.

Hair and Skin Will Be Healthier

Few things dry out your hair and skin like frequent, steamy showers. Cold water , according to Medical Daily, which can help keep dirt from getting in.

Hot water can also strip your skin of healthy natural oils, the report added, which can make your skin dry out faster. As for your hair, cold showers make it stronger and appear shinier, and it'll grip the scalp better, Medical Daily also said.

You'll Be More Alert

Jumping into a cold shower may seem like shock therapy, but that's only because it is. Your heart rate will increase and breathing will pick up, allowing for more oxygen intake. It's a natural way to wake your body in the morning, which of course is not recommended for people with heart ailments. But if you're a healthy individual, it can be even more beneficial to alertness than hot water, Medical Daily reported.

Cold Showers Are Better For the Environment

Climate change is a worldwide problem that will require a big effort to reverse. But every solution doesn't have to happen on a large scale. You can start in your shower.

Cold water uses less energy, , Planet Save says. Additionally, you're likely to stay in the shower for less time, decreasing your water usage and, therefore, helping keep a scarce resource available.

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