In Canada, we like to think of ourselves as the “True Great North,” unaffected by the cold. We joke about living in igloos, skiing to school and having pet polar bears.
So what’s all this complaining I always hear about it being cold out? What’s this whining about it snowing –Â again? (Actually, I can’t point any fingers, cause I’d just be pointing at myself)
Perhaps we’re good at enduring the cold. We can live with it. Although if we had the chance, we’d fly off somewhere hot and tropical instead (don’t deny you haven’t yearned for a sunny beach at some point during these bleary winter months).
Meanwhile in Russia, young and old are diving into freezing waters for fun!
There, winter is a friend, a source of pride, a reason for celebration. According to some, complaining about the cold can be comparable to treason. Winter, afterall, has won Russia some major battles.
So every winter, many gather at frozen-over rivers to cut a hole in the ice and jump in for a rejuvenating dip. Every Jan 19, the Orthodox Epiphany involves an imitation of the baptism of Jesus. Those who brave the icy water are rewarded with a sense of purification.
According to ice swimming clubs, the Polar Bears and the Walruses, winter swims do actually help your body – they boost circulation and the immune system!
Okay. Who’s up for a refreshing winter swim?
