shower before bed

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does not specifically discuss the benefits of taking a shower before bed on the . However, he talks about the effects of temperature on body rhythms and sleep in several episodes.

For instance, he mentions that taking a hot shower can be beneficial as it might align with the body's effort to increase internal temperature in anticipation of sleep. Heating up, whether through a shower or a sauna, can help combat infection and confer relaxation that might aid in sleep preparation 1. Moreover, Huberman notes the paradoxical effect of cold exposure, such as a cold shower, on core body temperature. Immersing in cold water for a short duration can actually cause the body to increase its core temperature, which might be helpful upon waking to feel more alert, not necessarily before bed 2.

For sleep optimization, , a sleep researcher, suggests having a wind-down routine which could include taking a hot bath or warm shower, among other relaxing activities. This routine can be akin to landing a plane, where the body needs time to descend into the state of sleep 3.

Sauna and Health

Andrew discusses the benefits of sauna for health and how it can help combat infection. A 15-minute sauna session could increase white blood cell profiles and adjust cortisol levels, which is beneficial for combating infection. He also provides a cautionary note that if you are already running a fever, getting into a sauna could take your body temperature into dangerously high levels.

Huberman Lab

Using Your Nervous System to Enhance Your Immune System | Huberman Lab Podcast #44
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To harness temperature for sleep, it is the downward shift in body temperature post-exposure to heat (like a shower or bath) that might be more impactful for inducing sleep rather than the warmth of the water itself 4. Huberman emphasizes not to use cold showers when sick and instead suggests warm showers and baths 5.

In summary, while does not provide a direct answer to the effectiveness of showering before bed, he discusses related themes that suggest temperature manipulation through showers can play a role in health and sleep patterns.

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