A fitness content creator’s unusual morning ritual has gone viral, leaving people scratching their heads. Ashton Hall, known for sharing aspects of his lifestyle on YouTube, starts his day at 3:50 AM, but it’s not the early wake-up that’s capturing attention – it’s his repeated face dunking into a bowl of ice-cold water.
The Viral Routine: A Deep Dive
Ashton Hall’s morning routine video, titled “The morning routine that changed my life 3:50am to 9:30am,” has garnered over 40 million views. The routine involves an intense gym session, swimming, meditation, and, most notably, multiple plunges of his head into ice water.
The Icy Plunge: What’s the Point?
Viewers are particularly fixated on the ice water ritual, questioning its purpose, with some finding it humorous. Hall dunks his face in ice water before the gym, after swimming, and even right before starting work. The fact that he does it after showering and a facial routine has left many baffled.
Social Media Reactions: Memes and Confusion
Social media users have taken to platforms like X to express their confusion and amusement. Some question the frequency and timing of the ice water plunges, especially the one right before work. The internet is filled with memes and commentary poking fun at the seemingly bizarre ritual.
The Science Behind Cold Water Immersion
While many are baffled, there may be benefits to dipping your face in ice-cold water.
Potential Benefits of Face Icing
According to Healthline, face icing may help eliminate puffiness, reduce inflammation, boost skin glow, and reduce signs of aging. Cold water immersion can also provide an energy boost and increase alertness.
Activating the Dive Reflex
Dunking your face in cold water activates the mammalian dive reflex, which slows the heart rate and redirects blood flow to the brain and vital organs. This can lead to a feeling of calmness and improved focus.
Examples of Other Unusual Morning Routines
Hall’s routine isn’t the only one raising eyebrows. Many successful people swear by unconventional morning rituals to boost productivity and well-being.
Orlando Bloom’s Wellness-Heavy Start
Actor Orlando Bloom’s morning routine, which went viral in 2021, includes waking up at 6:30 AM, checking his sleep tracker app, chanting for 20 minutes (due to his Buddhist practice), and consuming a “quite LA” pre-breakfast concoction of green powders, brain octane oil, collagen powder, and protein.
Other Unique Routines
- Reading non-fiction: Some individuals dedicate one to two hours to reading non-fiction books by candlelight before sunrise.
- Gratitude and intention setting: Instead of immediately checking their smartphones, some people take a moment to breathe deeply, express gratitude, and set intentions for the day.
- Walking dogs at unusual hours: Howard Schultz, former CEO of Starbucks, reportedly wakes up at 4:30 AM to walk his dogs.
Creating Your Own Morning Routine
The key to a successful morning routine is finding what works best for you.
Tips for Designing a Productive Morning
- Wake up at a consistent time: Regardless of bedtime, waking up at the same time each day can regulate your body’s natural clock.
- Hydrate: Drinking a full glass of water first thing in the morning can combat dehydration and improve focus.
- Move your body: Whether it’s a quick workout, stretching, or a walk, physical activity can boost energy levels and mood.
- Practice mindfulness: Meditation, deep breathing, or journaling can help reduce stress and improve focus.
- Plan and prioritize: Reviewing your tasks and creating a to-do list the night before can save time and reduce decision fatigue in the morning.
Common Elements of Successful Morning Routines
Productivity experts often focus on big-picture goals, gratitude, and planning. Some examples include:
- Gratitude journaling: Writing down things you are grateful for.
- Mindfulness and meditation: Taking time for quiet reflection.
- Prioritizing tasks: Identifying the most important tasks for the day.
- Setting intentions: Defining what you want to achieve.
The Mel Robbins’ 15-Minute Morning Routine
Motivational speaker Mel Robbins’ morning routine has also gone viral, consisting of six steps:
- Resist the snooze button
- Make your bed
- Give yourself a high-five in the mirror
- Drink water before caffeine
- Get outside for morning light
- Move your body
Conclusion
Ashton Hall’s ice water ritual may seem bizarre to some, but it highlights the diversity of morning routines and the lengths people go to for a productive day. While the science behind face icing may offer some explanation, ultimately, the effectiveness of any morning routine is subjective and depends on individual preferences and goals. Whether it’s a plunge into ice water, a quiet meditation, or a cup of coffee, the key is to find a routine that sets you up for success.
