Do Scandinavian babies really nap outdoors in the cold? Immune system hack or parental myth?

WHEN you hear the phrase “cold exposure” your mind might instinctively recoil at the thought of plunging into icy waters or bundling up for a winter run.

- VUYILE MADWANTSI

After all, South Africans are more accustomed to basking in the sun than braving the cold. While South Africans are known for bundling up babies at the first sign of a cold front, a growing global parenting trend suggests otherwise.

Scandi-style parenting, which encourages babies to nap outdoors in the cold, is making waves on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

Parents in Nordic countries such as Denmark, Finland, and Norway have long embraced this practice, believing that fresh air improves sleep quality and strengthens the immune system.

Cold exposure has long been linked to a wide range of health benefits. Research shows that immersing yourself in cold temperatures can boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and even improve mental health.

According to the Vhdehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, inhaling crisp, cold air triggers vaso-constriction — a process where blood vessels narrow, reducing swelling and clearing mucus from the nasal passages and lungs.

This natural response not only helps the body fight off infections but also creates a powerful immune system boost.

In a time when many are seeking ways to ward off illness, could a bracing dip or a cold-weather jog be part of the solution?