Orthodox Christians take the plunge in below-freezing temperatures and icy water.
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For Orthodox Christians the feast of the Epiphany (or Theophany), which takes place on January 19 and commemorates Christ’s baptism in the River Jordan, is celebrated with a blessing of the waters. On this holy day, at midnight on the eve of the feast, thousands of Russian Orthodox brave below-freezing temperatures and plunge (if only briefly) into ice-cold lakes and rivers in a ritual of purification that lasts throughout the night.
Literally not for the faint of heart (those with cardiac conditions should take a pass), in addition to the graces the blessed waters may bring, ice swimming is said to boost the immune system, prevent premature aging, and help with digestion, sleep and metabolism, according to a report in Pravda. A word of warning to those who may be tempted: any dive lasting longer than 10-15 seconds is considered life-threatening.
As Russians prepare to take an icy dip, here’s a look at that will make you shiver:
https://www.instagram.com/p/BAxKkhOHoj1/?tagged=russianepiphany
