From frozen Finnish lakes to Iceland’s steaming lagoons, getting into Arctic water is one of the best things you can do during an Arctic trip. The Arctic has a relationship with water that is built around traditions and its many health benefits. Here is everything you need to know to discover the powers of Arctic waters.
In recent years there has been an increase seen in the popularity of cold water swimming and ice plunges. Many people talk about the range of health benefits it has on the body and mind. While this is a new trend to some, in the Arctic this is nothing new. People have been immersing themselves in cold water there for centuries.
Finnish Sauna tradition:
In Finland, the sauna is a fundamental part of life and a tradition of the country. There are over three million saunas across the country and there are more saunas than there are cars! Finnish sauna culture dates back thousands of years. Traditionally, saunas were built as sanitary spaces. They were used for childbirth, healing, smoking meat, and cleansing. The tradition remains central to Finnish life up to this day with a focus on löyly (steam) to promote health, relaxation, and social connection.
Cold Water Plunge:
Cold water plunges are part of a regular routine for many in Finland, especially when paired with the heat of the sauna beforehand. The practice occurs all year round from summer dips into lakes to winter plunges through a hole cut into the ice of a frozen lake. There are many different health benefits associated with cold water immersion, with both physical and mental effects on the body.
Research has shown that over time, regular cold water immersion can have real benefits for cardiovascular health. The cold water causes your blood vessels to rapidly constrict. They then dilate again as you warm up. This process gives your cardiovascular system a genuine workout and can help improve its health over time.
Cold water plunges are also widely described as a powerful mood booster. This is not just down to the feeling of accomplishment from taking the plunge. During cold immersion, your body releases endorphins and noradrenaline. These are feel good chemicals that are linked to reducing the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Research has also revealed that cold plunges can have a positive effect on immunity and recovery. Regular cold water swimming has been linked with higher levels of white blood cells which creates a stronger immune system. It also helps greatly towards recovery especially for muscle recovery. The same principle is used by athletes in the form of using ice baths.
There are also some mental benefits described from ice plunges. Many describe feeling a sense of mental clarity and calm that lasts long past the ice plunge and sticks with them for hours after. Completing an ice plunge also builds the mental resilience as you push your body to do something hard and uncomfortable. This builds your inner strength. The Finns call this sisu which refers to a determined inner strength.
These benefits are why the sauna and ice plunge is so deeply valued in Finnish culture. It is a time to slow down, connect with the people around you and properly switch off. When visiting Finland, we would highly recommend you take part in this tradition and discover the power of Arctic waters for yourself.
Explore our range of trips to Finland and add an ice water swim to your trip to experience this tradition, or visit the Arctic Bath Spa hotel for the ultimate spa experience and take the plunge!
Geothermal Lagoons:
Iceland sits on one of the most volcanically active spots on earth and that has created something truly extraordinary, naturally heated water, bubbling up from the deep underground. Bathing in Iceland’s geothermal waters has become a part of life and a big tradition for the country since the time of the Norse settlers.
The blue lagoon is the most famous geothermal waters in Iceland and is set in a dramatic black lava field on the Reykjanes peninsula. The water is a milky turquoise colour and is heated to around 37-39°C all year round. The water is filled with silica, algae and minerals, which is what creates its striking colour. The silica in the water is thought to have skin softening properties with many visitors noticing the difference after just a few hours. The blue lagoon creates a unique experience as you float in volcanically warmed waters while being surrounded by the cold Arctic air.
Discover the magic of Iceland’s legendary geothermal waters and start planning your next adventure today. From steaming lagoons to natural hot springs, there is nowhere quite like it.
Whether you are drawn to the Finnish sauna and ice plunge, the warm waters of Iceland, or both, these are experiences that stay with you. They are a genuine way of connecting with the Arctic, with the people around you and with yourself. We think everyone should try them.
Image credits: Kakslauttanen Resort, Blue Lagoon and Arctic Bath