If you want to zero in on things better, neuroscientist Dr. Hayley Nelson, PhD, tells Parade, “Splashing cold water on your face can offer a quick reset for focus."Dr. Nelson explains that this simple action activates the mammalian dive reflex, which is an evolutionary response designed to help humans survive when they emerge in cold water. She says that when cold water hits the face, especially around the eyes and forehead, it sends signals through a major cranial nerve called the trigeminal nerve to the brainstem. When this happens, it triggers a rapid shift in the autonomic nervous system, which is a part of the nervous system that controls involuntary functions in the body, such as heart rate, digestion and breathing.Related: The Surprising Morning Habit That Experts Recommend for Better Focus
Can Warm Water Boost Focus?
Maybe you don’t like the shock of cold water; you prefer a warm or hot stream. Can you splash warm water on your face instead and still reap the benefits? According to Dr. Nelson, unfortunately, no. The shock is the whole point!
If you do use warm water, Dr. Nelson says you’re more likely to feel relaxed. “It may feel nice, but it won’t activate the same alertness pathways or engage the dive reflex. So, while a warm splash might relax you, a cold splash is far more effective when your goal is to refocus and get back on track,” she shares.
While splashing cold water on your face is a quick fix for better focusing, Dr. Nelson emphasizes that it isn’t a cure-all, explaining, “For anyone looking to improve focus, pairing this strategy with other science-backed tools—like structured breaks, breathwork or even a brisk walk—can enhance results." Especially if the reason why you can’t focus is because you’re stressed, anxious or tired, it’s important to treat the root cause.
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Sources:
Hayley Nelson, PhD, neuroscientist, psychology professor, and founder of The Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral NeuroscienceThe Mammalian Diving Response: An Enigmatic Relex to Preserve Life? Physiology. 2013Autonomic Nervous System. Cleveland ClinicVagus activation by Cold Face Test reduces acute psychosocial stress responses. Scientific Reports. 2022 Read More Details
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