There are so many ways to get strong, happy, and healthy, and I’m always open to exploring new practices especially those backed by science. At the same time, I’ve been reminding myself to return to habits I’ve drifted away from.

One of those is the cold plunge. I’ve never been a fan of the cold, but knowing the benefits, I can push past my resistance. As I step into the water, I remind myself: it’s just information. My perception decides whether it’s a challenge or a treat.

I started small, two minutes and worked up to three and a half. Each time, it felt rewarding to rise to the challenge, to step up and step in. And every time I got out, I felt better for it.