Tip: Quick cold stimulus to calm you during acute stress
Acute stress can temporarily raise your blood pressure and put strain on the cardiovascular system. A simple, quick method to calm the nervous system in such moments is a brief cold stimulus.
How cold affects you
A cold stimulus, especially to the face, can activate parts of the natural diving reflex (diving reflex). This reflex is biologically rooted and causes many people to experience:
- a short-term slowing of the heart rate
- calmer breathing
- activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for relaxation
How to do it
- Most effective method: Briefly splash cold water on your face or place a cool washcloth on your cheeks or forehead.
- Gentler alternative: Hold the inside of your wrists under cold water for a few seconds.
Who is this tip suitable for?
The technique is safe for most people. People with cardiovascular disease, irregular heart rhythms, or pronounced sensitivity to cold should use strong cold stimuli cautiously and deliberately.
This article is from Tensana – the leading app since 2011, helping hundreds of thousands of people monitor their blood pressure every day.
Our content is based on carefully researched, evidence-based data and is continuously updated (as of 11/2025).
Author Horst Klier has been closely involved with high blood pressure since 2002 – initially because he was personally affected and, since 2009, as the developer of Tensana – and is now regarded as a recognized blood pressure expert thanks to his app and specialist platform, used millions of times, as well as his numerous publications. As the author of several health guides and specialist articles, he communicates complex knowledge in a clear and practical way.
Author Horst Klier has been closely involved with high blood pressure since 2002 – initially because he was personally affected and, since 2009, as the developer of Tensana – and is now regarded as a recognized blood pressure expert thanks to his app and specialist platform, used millions of times, as well as his numerous publications. As the author of several health guides and specialist articles, he communicates complex knowledge in a clear and practical way.
