"Nothing Spikes Dopamine Like 1 Minute of This" - Andrew Huberman
Get the full length version of this episode as a podcast.
This episode will make a great companion for a long drive.
The BDNF Protocol Guide
An essential checklist for cognitive longevity — filled with specific exercise, heat stress, and omega-3 protocols for boosting BDNF. Enter your email, and we'll deliver it straight to your inbox.
Deliberate cold exposure leads to a prolonged rise in dopamine and norepinephrine above baseline levels. What's particularly interesting is this boost in dopamine occurs without an apparent subsequent drop in dopamine below baseline levels which is in stark contrast to drugs of abuse. Those substances cause large and rapid spikes in dopamine followed by drops below baseline levels (the crash), which can be quite detrimental.
In this video, Andrew also details:
- Why he "counts walls" during deliberate cold exposure
- Why cold exposure enhances stress tolerance
- Why deliberate cold exposure may benefit stress resilience by cultivating an interoceptive sense of overcoming or "moving through" stress
- Why Dr. Andrew Huberman believes early-day adrenaline from cold-water immersion may enhance nighttime sleep quality, particularly REM sleep
- Effective cold plunges alternatives for boosting dopamine
Member only extras:
Learn more about the advantages of a premium membership by clicking below.
Attend Monthly Q&As with Rhonda
Support our work

The FoundMyFitness Q&A happens monthly for premium members. Attend live or listen in our exclusive member-only podcast The Aliquot.