Swimming in Cold Seas – Courage, Madness, or Something Else?
Each New Year is often marked by articles and photos of brave swimmers fearlessly plunging into the cold sea.
But what’s the secret behind this tradition? What drives people to cool off even further in the winter chill? Is it madness, courage, or something entirely different?
The tradition of winter swimming dates back to ancient times. Spartans, raised under a strict regime, regularly used cold baths, believing that cold water strengthened both body and spirit. This philosophy inspired the saying, "A healthy mind in a healthy body."
In Eastern traditions, winter swimming is tied to religious liturgies like Epiphany celebrations. In North America and Northern Europe, it’s often part of New Year’s festivities. According to some alternative beliefs, the sea, as a source of life, is an endless reservoir of positive energy. By entering this vast pool of positivity, the human body – viewed as a limited vessel of both good and bad energy – undergoes a transformation. The greater the temperature difference between the body and the sea, the faster the body fills with positive energy. This is why cold seas are considered one of the most effective stress relievers.
When the body is immersed in cold water, blood vessels on the surface constrict, and blood pressure rises. This is a defense mechanism to preserve heat for vital organs. The sudden constriction forces blood toward the heart, which then pumps faster to distribute it throughout the body. However, this rapid rhythm can sometimes lead to fibrillation or irregular heartbeats, potentially resulting in cardiac arrest.
For this reason, winter swimming is not recommended for people with heart problems or high blood pressure. Additionally, beginners unaccustomed to cold conditions should avoid it unless they’ve gradually acclimated their bodies by continuing summer swimming into autumn and winter (1-2 sessions per week).
Despite the potential risks, winter swimming offers numerous health benefits, some of which are almost immediate. Many health professionals agree that if all the positive effects of winter swimming could be packed into a pill, it would be the best-selling medicine on the planet.
The initial shock of cold water lasts about a minute, during which the body adjusts. Afterward, most swimmers experience a sense of warmth and euphoria, making the effort worthwhile.
To reap the benefits, regular practice is essential. Start in autumn and gradually acclimate to colder temperatures. Jumping straight into winter swimming without preparation can be harmful.
While winter swimming may not guarantee a lifespan of 100 years, it undoubtedly enhances the quality of life, offering physical and mental rewards that far outweigh the initial discomfort. Whether you view it as courage, madness, or a health-conscious lifestyle choice, it’s an experience that transforms both body and spirit.
