Feeling short of breath after an ice bath is a common physiological response known as a cold-induced respiratory response. When your body is exposed to extreme cold, such as in an ice bath, it triggers a natural reflex that constricts the blood vessels in the airways, leading to a sensation of breathlessness. This response is a protective mechanism to conserve heat and prevent the loss of warm air from the lungs. While it may feel uncomfortable, it is generally temporary and subsides as your body adjusts to the cold. It is important to focus on calm and controlled breathing during and after the ice bath to regulate your breath and allow your body to adapt to the cold exposure.