Coldwater Swimming

Coldwater Swimming

During the first Covid-19 lockdown in Finland I decided to finally give cold water bathing a try. I also inspired my daughters, then 10 and 7 to try. I changed into my bathing suit at home, put on my first sample of KAFTAN(EN) along with a hat of wool, a pair of UGG boots and a warm sweater. Dressed like that, we drove down to a pier and beach close by where we live and where there is a community of cold swimmers.

After dipping into the sea KAFTAN(EN) was the perfect cover for getting the cold and wet bathing suit off in ‘privacy’ whilst also drying me quickly.

I did not expect the cold water to have such a huge positive effect on me, even though I had read about it and seen many social media posts on the greatness of it. It is all true, I can vouch for that.

Cold water swimming became my holy moment and my Saturday morning ritual. The colder and greyer the better.

Pia

p.s If you decide to give it a try, read in on what to do and what not to do. Breathing right is key, it took me a while to get it right. Also get yourself a pair of gloves and socks for water usage, to keep your hands and feet from freezing.

Here are some links that might be useful for you;

https://www.outdoorswimmingsociety.com/how-to-acclimatise-to-cold-water/

https://www.breathemagazine.com/2018/06/07/cold-water-swimming/