Tip: Quick cold stimulus to calm you during acute stress

Acute stress can temporarily raise your blood pressure and put strain on the cardiovascular system. A simple, quick method to calm the nervous system in such moments is a brief cold stimulus.

How cold affects you

A cold stimulus especially to the face can activate parts of the natural diving reflex (diving reflex). This reflex is biologically rooted and causes many people to experience:

• a short-term slowing of the heart rate
  
  
• a calming of the breathing
  
  
• activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for relaxation

These responses can help quickly reduce stress and bring the body back to a calmer state.

How to do it

• Most effective method: Briefly splash cold water on your face or place a cool washcloth on your cheeks or forehead.
  
  
• Gentler alternative: Hold the inside of your wrists under cold water for a few seconds.

Important: Effects vary between individuals. Some people feel quickly calmed, while others notice a milder effect. This method does not replace long-term stress-management strategies, but it can be a helpful aid in acute moments.

Who is this tip suitable for?

The technique is safe for most people. People with cardiovascular disease, irregular heart rhythms, or pronounced sensitivity to cold should use strong cold stimuli with caution.