If you've ever watched the people in the polar bear club who run into the freezing water for a moment or two, and then run back into the safety of their warm shelter - you will recognize the spark for life it gives them while they do so. While they do it for many different reasons, there are many benefits that they may or may not be aware of, and you don't have to join their club to reap the benefits for yourself! You can instead jump into a cold shower.

Here are some benefits to take that cold shower in the morning instead of the hot one.

Improved Circulation - When you immerse yourself in a cold shower your blood has to rush to the organs to keep them warm. This is in contrast to the normal routine of warm water, which causes the blood to move towards the skin. If you mix up the two you are stimulating the circulatory system in a way that doesn't normally happen, and this is argued as a way to keep yourself healthier and younger looking as a healthy circulation aids in recovery from stresses on the body.

Strengthens the Mucous Membranes - Your mucous membranes, such as the ones in your mouth and nose, manufacture slimy fluid called mucus, which is what protects those membranes and keeps them moist. The cold water strengthens these membranes, which means your chances of colds and other mucous issues drops down drastically.

Increases Energy - Skip the energy drink to get you going in the morning and take a cold shower instead. The cold water will get your heart pumping and your mind going better than anything else will. If you weren't awake and ready to go before you stepped into the shower, you will be when you come out.

Nourishes Skin and Hair For Natural Health - Cold water doesn't dry out your skin and hair like hot water does. It also helps keep your pores tight which will give you healthier looking skin. If you find yourself having to lather on the lotion and re-condition your hair after your showers, then you may want to give the cold trick a try.

Boosts Your Immunity - There have been studies done that show the support of cold water therapy produces a stronger immune system. The reasoning is that the immune system releases more white blood cells, due to increased metabolic rate, when the body has to warm itself up.

Reduces Chance Of Infertility - Guys, if you are trying to get your wife pregnant then this may be of interest to you. The testes hang outside of the body for a good reason. The sperm do not like the heat of body temperature and don't 'do well' in that environment. If you are constantly exposing them to hot bathes and showers, then you can decrease the amount of sperm you have and how much they move around. This results in decreasing your chances of producing a baby.

Help With Weight Loss Success - Cold water is said to increase your metabolic rate because your body has to burn through some calories to warm itself up. A higher metabolic rate is associated with faster weight loss. Because your metabolism is a natural calorie burning process, it stands to reasons that an increase in metabolic rate will help you in your efforts to reduce weight.