The Neurochemistry of Cold: Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin
TJ Power on how cold exposure influences the four major neurotransmitter systemsâdopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, endorphinsâand what that means for mood, motivation, and connection.
Key Insights
Cold triggers sustained dopamine elevation (up to 250% baseline)
Oxytocin release enhances pair-bonding and social connection through shared challenge
Serotonin pathways activated through improved mood regulation
Endorphins provide natural analgesiaâtrained through repeated exposure
"The body adapts to what you consistently demand of itâcontrolled stress builds resilience when applied deliberately."