Most of us probably do it every morning, just to freshen up or to snap out of that weird dream. It’s called “Mammalian Diving Reflex”. Of course this is not just about morning routines, as it also happens when you dive underwater.
The process may seem quick, but during those few seconds three changes occur in the body:
- First, your heart rate slows down up to 25 percent.
- Second, the blood flow to the limbs are reduced, just to make sure the brain and the heart receive enough oxygen.
- Third, there is a blood shift, but this only occurs during very deep dives. This allows the blood plasma and water to pass through organs to protect them against the increasing pressure.
Now that you know this actually works, you could try it before a business meeting, or simply a date. Even by using a cold wet towel, you can activate this reflex in order to calm your nerves.