Holiday hardening: how baptismal bathing affects health

Every year on January 19, many believers celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord – a Christian holiday in honor of the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River. According to tradition, on this frosty day one should dip three times in a font of icy water. Entire queues of those wishing to dip in the icy water are lined up at the ice-holes in the form of a cross – sometimes even children and pregnant women can be found there. But how does such extreme bathing affect health? Are there any contraindications?

What are the usefulness of baptismal bathing?

Hardening. Many people decide to take a dip also for health-improving purposes. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, bathing in icy water stimulates the immune system. After such a “stressful” situation, the body becomes more accustomed to low temperatures and resistant to disease. “Walruses” are less likely to get acute respiratory viral infections and colds. And some claim that after regular diving symptoms of chronic diseases disappeared.

Strengthening of blood vessels. Sudden cold makes the blood rush quickly to the skin. Accordingly, at the moment of diving capillaries, veins and arteries work hard, which improves blood circulation.

Happiness. After bathing, many people note a sharp rise in mood. The fact that the adrenal glands in a stressful situation for the body begin to produce endorphins – hormones of happiness.

Calorie burning. During the dive, the body will throw all its energies to keep warm. To do this, it will need a lot of energy, the lack of which will be compensated by fat deposits. It is not surprising that after the New Year holidays, some girls continue bathing.

What are the contraindications of baptismal bathing?

It is possible to dip in the font only healthy people. If you have any of these diseases, you should refrain from bathing. If you really want to follow the tradition, consult a therapist beforehand – he will be able to identify the associated risks and issue a conclusion.

Contraindications include:

• Cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension;
• nervous system disorders;
• pregnancy;
• infectious diseases;
• gynecologic inflammations;
• exacerbation of chronic diseases;
• diabetes mellitus;
• obesity;
• diseases of the genitourinary system.

Children and the elderly should also refrain from bathing, so as not to risk their health. Especially if there are severe frosts. Also in no case should you drink alcohol or other intoxicating substances before taking a dip in the Jordan.

How to bathe properly, so as not to harm yourself

At least an hour before the planned immersion it is recommended to eat a dense meal, so that the body has a reserve of energy.

Before swimming, do a small warm-up, for example, a few squats. This will increase blood circulation and warm up the body.

Eyes fear, but hands do! Don’t hesitate too long when it’s your turn to take a dip. It is enough to spend 15-20 seconds in the water – no more, especially if it is your first time. Before diving, you can hold your breath – this way you won’t feel as if it’s been taken away. This can happen due to vasospasm.

After you get out of the water, dry yourself with a towel. Do it carefully, so as not to accidentally damage the blood vessels. Then dress warmly and drink hot tea.

If you are completely healthy, then with proper bathing, the risks are minimal. If there are diseases, it is better to refrain from this tradition or consult a doctor. Since the body can react unpredictably to such stress.

Remember, if you suddenly feel ill, there are always EMERCOM and ambulance staff on duty near the Jordan, who will immediately come to your aid. Listen to your body to celebrate the Christian holiday without harm to your health.