It is believed that on the feast of Epiphany, water in rivers and other bodies of water acquires miraculous power and can even heal. If this year you also decided to plunge into the hole, try to adhere to the following tips.
Bathing in the hole at the Epiphany, which is celebrated annually on January 19, gives strength and energy. During the contact of the body with ice water, the vessels expand, thereby improving blood circulation. Thus, nutrients are absorbed faster, the nervous system and muscles are strengthened, and toxins are quickly eliminated.
It would seem that there are only pluses. However, an unprepared body can react negatively to the cold. Therefore, it is important to follow some rules before an “extreme” dive.
1. Consult a doctor
Before swimming in ice water, it is important to undergo a medical examination. There are diseases that are asymptomatic, and hypothermia can cause their exacerbations.
Diving into the hole will pass without any problems for a person even with “average” health, but in other cases, it will harm the body.
Who should not swim in the hole:
- people suffering from diabetes
- hypertensive patients and those suffering from arrhythmia
- people with diseases of the kidneys and genitourinary system;
- pregnant women, as premature contractions may begin;
- people who have a temperature above 37 degrees;
- people with thyroid diseases, endocrine system disorders;
- if you have an exacerbation of any disease
- sick with tuberculosis;
- patients with conjunctivitis, glaucoma.
2. Get used to cold water
Start with wet towel rubdowns, then try contrast showers and practice dousing. It is recommended to prepare for diving into the hole 2-3 days in advance. In order for the body to get used to the cold, lower the temperature of the water by one degree every day.
3. Change your diet
3-5 days before Epiphany bathing, foods with vitamin C should be excluded from the diet – citrus fruits, herbs, rose hips, etc. They stimulate the immune system, and diving into ice-cold water can have the opposite effect. As a result, the body will begin to weaken. Also, two hours before bathing, you need to eat well, while avoiding heavy food and alcohol.
4. Warm up and dive
The body will better tolerate immersion in cold water if you warm up thoroughly before diving. To do this, it is enough to perform several exercises: squats, waving hands, and jumping. Entering the water should not be too slow and not too fast – the dive should be “smooth”.
5. No alcohol
Alcoholic beverages are also prohibited. Alcohol makes it harder for the body to warm up. In addition, rupture of blood vessels is possible.
6. Clothes
Prepare clothes that can be quickly removed and put on. It is best to avoid items with buttons, laces, etc. The main thing is that you can quickly get dressed after swimming. Be sure to take a rug under your feet and a large warm towel.
7. Take care of warming
Take a thermos of hot milk or tea with you. These drinks are great for warming up. But from alcohol, especially strong, after bathing, you must refrain.
8. How much to swim
Remember, if the air temperature drops below -7 degrees, you should not plunge headlong. The maximum duration of bathing is 6-10 seconds.
9. Caution first
We remind you that in the conditions of lockdown, it is worth taking care of your health and the health of your loved ones. Don’t go to public events!
Be attentive to yourself and follow the recommendations – then the holiday bathing will be successful. Also, catch the best congratulations on the Baptism of the Lord.
