At 56, acclaimed actor Cate Blanchett maintains that her commitment to personal wellness is unwavering, even when her demanding schedule requires her to travel extensively. She explained in an interview with *Byrdie* that although her morning ritual may seem almost humorously conventional due to its growing popularity, she continues to immerse herself in cold water every single morning. This invigorating practice, she said, serves as a powerful equalizer — a reset button of sorts — that energizes her both physically and mentally, allowing her to begin each day with vitality and clear focus. Blanchett compared the sensation to an electric jolt that instantly awakens the senses and centers her mind for whatever lies ahead.
To maintain her radiant complexion, Blanchett relies on a select set of trusted techniques that combine elements of skincare and holistic restoration. In particular, she emphasized the importance of lymphatic drainage, repeating the phrase to underscore how essential she finds it. According to Blanchett, a well-executed facial massage provides an extraordinary dual benefit: it soothes and relaxes her at the end of long days while simultaneously stimulating circulation and bringing renewed energy to her skin. She also includes a few minutes of Tai Chi in her morning routine, explaining that this mindful movement practice gently activates her body and spirit, helping her transition from rest to wakefulness with harmony and poise.
Because these devoted habits preserve her skin’s natural luminosity, Blanchett has found she can confidently minimize her use of makeup. She believes that when one’s skin looks healthy and vibrant on its own, there is little need for layers of product to conceal imperfections. For everyday life, she said, her essentials amount to little more than a swipe of mascara to define the eyes and a beautifully chosen lipstick to complete the look. Her philosophy underscores an appreciation for authenticity — the idea that caring for oneself from within can eliminate the need for cosmetic overcompensation.
This isn’t the first occasion on which Blanchett has publicly endorsed her icy ritual. In a previous conversation with *The Guardian*, she described her daily plunge into cold water as the singular habit that keeps her grounded and emotionally balanced during stressful times. She explained that the experience of submerging herself for a few minutes each morning has a deeply centering effect: it restores perspective, quiets mental noise, and forces her to acknowledge her physical presence in the moment and the space she inhabits.
The concept of cold plunging — or ice bathing — has transcended its origins as a luxury enjoyed by elite athletes and wellness enthusiasts. It has evolved into a mainstream phenomenon, fueled by a widespread cultural fascination with longevity and performance optimization. While the scientific community remains divided — some studies indicate that cold-water immersion helps alleviate post-exercise muscle soreness, while others warn that it may slow long-term muscle development — the practice continues to attract a devoted following. Prominent athletes like NBA star Stephen Curry have integrated it into their recovery routines, with Curry noting that skipping a cold tub session noticeably affects his body’s ability to recover efficiently.
For those who lack access to a dedicated plunge pool, even a simple cold shower can deliver a comparable burst of rejuvenation. NBA All-Star Kevin Love, for example, has shared that he begins his mornings with a one- to five-minute cold shower, depending on how intense an awakening he feels he needs. He described the practice as a potent way to stimulate both his mind and body, heightening alertness and delivering a surge of dopamine that fuels his mental clarity. Through these examples, Blanchett and others illustrate that something as elemental as cold water — accessible, minimalistic, and grounded in nature — can serve as a profound instrument for renewal, promoting both physical restoration and inner equilibrium.
Sourse: https://www.businessinsider.com/cate-blanchett-morning-routine-wellness-cold-plunge-taichi-lymphatic-drainage-2025-12
