Hardening in an ice-hole in winter: pros and cons

After that, the activity of the body’s energy system increases, immune cells are activated, and intense heat production begins. The feeling of heat all over the body and overflowing energy is familiar to every winter swimming lover. It is not for nothing that swimming in an ice hole is believed to be one of the ways to combat depression.

Of course, any wellness system has its pros and cons. But for some reason, it is with winter swimming in the mass consciousness that a lot of misconceptions and fears are especially associated. Let’s see if there is a reason for them. So, here are 5 myths about swimming in the ice hole:

1. Even short-term contact with ice water is a terrible stress for the body.

In fact, this statement is true only for people who practice winter swimming every day, as well as for lovers of regular contrast procedures (bath / ice hole / snowdrift / bath). If this happens too often, the organism wears out. So moderation is the main principle of novice polar bears.

2. Winter swimming is akin to hormone therapy

Indeed, there are some similarities. People who have been taking hormones for a long time, and then suddenly stopped, have an immediate deterioration in their general well-being. So when bathing in ice water 3-4 times a week, there is a restructuring of some processes in the body.

In addition, cold water promotes the release of endorphins into the bloodstream, which give an energy boost and ensure good health, addiction occurs. This is why some avid winter swimmers find summer not a joy at all. But if you do not temper too zealously, then nothing criminal will happen.

3. Only very healthy people can plunge into cold water.

Indeed, there are several contraindications:

– colds or bronchial diseases

– diseases of the heart and blood vessels

– hypertension

– tendency to seizures

– kidney inflammation

– thyroid problems

But at the same time, there are many cases when people got rid of the listed diseases with the help of winter swimming. If you follow all the rules, then there is nothing to be afraid of. Although, a preliminary consultation with a doctor will not be superfluous.

4. Women, especially pregnant women, should not swim in the ice hole

It is believed that plunging into ice water, you can “get cold”, that is, earn cystitis, inflammation of the kidneys, appendages and other joys. This can actually happen if you take long swims in the ice hole. Hardening, on the other hand, implies a slight effect of cold with mandatory subsequent heating. However, if you did not practice such bathing before pregnancy, then it is hardly worth starting right now.

5. To harden, you need to gradually lower the water temperature by 1 degree, and not immediately enter the cold

This is wrong. It has been proven that in untrained people, an “intermediate” temperature in the region of 10 degrees is much more likely to cause a cold.