'Extraordinary' 88-year-old woman who 'glows with vitality' shares her shower habit for longevity

Alex Koekies (known as @alexkoekies on TikTok) took to the sharing platform to ask her grandmother for her top longevity tips.

The octogenarian told viewers that she takes cold showers year-round. Experts at UCLA Health confirmed that just a few minutes in cold water can reap substantial benefits.

They stated: "Cold therapy, also called cryotherapy, uses exposure to cold temperatures to cool the body's tissues for therapeutic reasons.

"Cold showers are not the primary treatment for any conditions, and conclusive research about cold therapy is still limited. But a quick blast of cold water can be beneficial when used for symptom relief."

Possible benefits of cold showers include bolstering your immunity to common colds, combatting symptoms of depression, improving circulation, increasing metabolism, reducing inflammation, preventing muscle soreness, and relieving localised pain.

Bupa shared that cold water therapy has also been reported to "improve risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels".

Evidence for the Wim Hof method also suggests it could have a "possible benefit in inflammatory-related conditions", although more research is required to know this for certain.

For those keen to experience the benefits of cold showers, Bupa advised: "Gradually reduce the temperature and increase the length of time you spend in cold water as your body gets used to it."

But despite its apparent benefits, it's important to note the potential risks of this particular shower practice.

The experts explained that "cold water puts your body under stress", and while this can produce positive effects, it can also be "dangerous, and even fatal for some people".

Britons were warned that cold water immersion can trigger cold water shock (an automatic response where your heart rate increases and you lose control of your breathing), arrhythmias (heart rhythm disorders), and hypothermia (when your core temperature gets too cold).

"Building up sessions gradually can help your body to adapt to the cold and lessen the risk of cold water shock," the experts suggested for those new to the practice.

"Many of these problems are more likely if you have any underlying medical conditions, such as problems with your heart or asthma.

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"If you're concerned about how cold water therapy may affect you, discuss it with your GP before trying it. Remember, cold water therapy won’t be suitable for everybody."

As well as enjoying cold showers, the 88-year-old sticks to a healthy eating plan where she eats everything in moderation but mainly avoids desserts - although she does not diet. Finally, she keeps herself fit by regularly playing golf.

A nutritious, balanced diet and active lifestyle are both hailed by experts as keys to longevity.

Social media users praised the octogenarian's lifestyle habits, commenting that she looks fantastic. Indeed, one said in awe: "88?! She is glowing with vitality."

Another agreed: "Talk about ageing beautifully, my word." A third called her "extraordinary", stating: "What a beauty!"

For tailored guidance on health and boosting longevity, always consult your GP.