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What Happens to Your Body When You Splash Cold Water on Your Face

Splashing cold water on your face triggers a real survival reflex — here's what's actually happening Have you ever tried this when you were stressed or panicking? Did it actually work?

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Splashing cold water on your face triggers a real survival reflex — here's what's actually happening Have you ever tried this when you were stressed or panicking? Did it actually work?

Transcript

Cold water on your face can actually slow your heart. It's called the diving reflex — a survival response mammals evolved underwater. And the nerve it activates — the vagus nerve — is the same one tied to anxiety and panic. Cold water on your face activates it, which may help dial down a stress response fast. Next time you're overwhelmed, try it — and follow for more like this.