Winter Swimming – A Truly Scandinavian Experience. But Why On Earth Would You Swim In Icy Water?
In Scandinavia, winter swimming is a popular pastime. Every day, even in the middle of winter, you can see people taking a dip in the icy waters if you are close to the sea. For some, it’s a way to relax and de-stress. For others, it’s a way to stay fit and healthy. And for some, it’s simply a way to enjoy the beauty of nature. Whatever the reason, there’s no doubt that winter swimming takes guts – but it has lots of benefits!
Scandinavia is known for being a region with very cold weather, so it may come as a surprise to some that winter swimming is so popular there. The combination of frigid temperatures and vibrant blue hues of ice-cold water makes the experience of swimming around in the Nordic landscape utterly surreal and incredibly peaceful. With origin stories telling tales of taking cold baths to improve wellbeing, the tradition lives on today and is more popular than ever before as a way to stay healthy both mentally and physically. Whether taking the plunge as a family or with friends, winter swimming in Scandinavia is an once-in-a lifetime experience for all those who take part in it.
If you are traveling to Scandinavia on a family trip during winter, we highly recommend that you seek out one of the places where the locals go for a dip and and either watch or try it out for yourself. Just make sure that you pick a day without too much wind which will chill you as you come out of the water. And bring a towel and something you can put on your feet fast.
Nothing quite compares to the invigorating feeling of submerging oneself in the icy cold water. It’s an unparalleled zest for life, providing an escape from our daily grind and helping us reset with energy. It’s also great for our physical health; being immersed in cold water has been proven to increase circulation and reduce inflammation. Sure, it takes a bit of bravery to take that first plunge, but when you feel the positive results firsthand, it will be worth it! Nothing else can offer the refreshing yet empowering effect that comes with dipping into frigid waters. And if you add a sauna to the experience and alternate between the hot and cold, it’s even better!
Believe it or not, taking a dip in icy-cold water has major health benefits. Firstly, you’ll experience a surge of energy that can help kickstart your day and make you more alert. Secondly, cold water immersion signals to your parasympathetic nervous system that there is no danger around you – it promotes relaxation and enables you to really chill out. All of this means that not only do you get a healthy feeling of energizing alertness but also the psychological benefit of being able to completely relax and reduce stress levels.
5 benefits of dipping in icy cold water:
- It’s great for your health.
Swimming in cold water has many health benefits. It helps to improve blood circulation, strengthens the immune system, and increases lung capacity. It also releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. So if you’re feeling down in the dumps, a dip in the icy water could be just what you need! - It’s good for your skin.
Cold water constricts blood vessels and pores, which can help to reduce inflammation and redness in the skin. It can also help to tighten pores and give your skin a healthy glow. - It boosts your energy levels.
A dip in cold water gives you an energy boost thanks to the release of adrenaline. This can help you to feel more alert and awake, even on the coldest of days! - It’s great for your mental health.
Winter swimming has been shown to have positive effects on mental health. It can help to reduce stress levels and improve mood. It can also increase feelings of happiness and well-being. So if you’re looking for a way to beat the winter blues, this could be it! - May have benefits to your weight as it increases the activity of the brown fat cells that will burn energy to produce extra heat.
Final words
If you’re looking for a way to boost your health and wellbeing this winter, why not give winter swimming a try? It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but there’s no denying that it has its benefits! With so many positive effects on physical and mental health, it’s definitely worth taking the plunge – even if it is into icy cold water!
