In this episode we talk about a topic that’s gained a lot of traction and attention recently….you may have seen people doing this on various social media platforms, or news outlets, there’s even been celebrities who have recently been discussing this practice, and if you follow me on instagram you may have seen some of my posts about this as well. Our topic today is deliberate cold exposure. I break down the rationale behind them, the benefits, and provide tips and strategies.

Those of you that know my work or who have listened to previous episodes likely are aware that when it comes to health, wellness, and personal development, I’m a proponent of things that you can do to elevate your mind, body, and performance - that are relatively easy to implement, natural, and in some some cases free or low cost - things such as nutrition, sleep, hydration, exercise, meditation, and reading. 

I think it’s too common for people to want a quick fix, an expensive surgery, or costly pills or medication to try to fix or improve something they are unhappy about or to enhance their mind or body, so I like to study, discuss, and implement more simple steps people can take and that I can take personally that are proven to be beneficial to physical health, mental health, and performance.

I feel strongly that we need to go on the offensive and take control of things that we can take control of because there are so many things in life that aren’t in our control.

And in terms of deliberate cold exposure, there are proven benefits to the mind, body, and performance, so it’s sort of a three for one practice. Additionally, the benefits are long lasting, meaning they continue on well after you get out of the cold water.

*This is not medical advice. It’s always important to consult with a medical professional or your doctor prior to implementing a new practice, particularly when it comes to deliberately cooling or warming the body. There are risks if not done correctly.

This episode focuses on something that is too prevalent in a lot of people - The Victim Mentality -

If you've ever been in a situation where you didn't get something that you wanted, an outcome you desired, a result you were expecting…… that promotion…..didn't land the job you wanted…..got into a disagreement with someone….failed to make a team…..and your immediate reaction was to blame somebody else….."they're wrong…they just don't like me…..it's political…..it should've been me”.....guess what - did you ever think that it might be you?  Maybe YOU are the problem....maybe YOU need to get better.

So many people have this ongoing belief that they are always the victim of events or circumstances. They feel like they are powerless in most situations and blame outside forces for lack of results or failures or difficulties. You know people like this - always making self-pity comments, they avoid things, they don’t take responsibility, are always making excuses or negative comments. They’re problem creators and admirers instead of solution seekers. They think the world is against them and they always blame somebody else or something else..they believe that they have little or no control over their own lives.

Not only do people with a victim mentality often not succeed - the research also shows that it can be bad for mental health, overall well-being, and stress. Additionally, they have higher levels of anxiety and depression and lower levels of self esteem. Not only that, it also negatively impacts relationships.

Often times people with a victims mentality lack self awareness - sometimes they don’t realize they’re doing it but other times it’s an easy escape or excuse and has become more prevalent and accepted. 

And yes, sometimes there are things that happen that are beyond your control, but you can choose your response and what steps you’ll take to improve

Conversely, the opposite type of people are the victors - sometimes they are referred to as the survivors or empowered. They maintain a mindset of personal responsibility and accountability.. They take ownership. They actively pursue solutions to their problems. They use failure as a vehicle and motivator for success. They believe in personal agency and they seek opportunities for growth and improvement. Instead of blaming somebody else or something else externally, they conduct an internal analysis to see what they can do to change their circumstance.  They take charge, make a plan, set goals, and work to achieve them.

Tune in to here more about the Victim mentality and tips to overcome it.