Winter Swimming. The Nordic Way Towards a Healthier and Happier Life

Description

A beautifully illustrated exploration of cold-water traditions in Scandinavia and around the world, and a thorough account of why it provides such a boost to body and soul. Whether in lake, lido, river or sea, we know the benefits of swimming outdoors and in nature - environmentally friendly and accessible, it can influence our happiness, our energy and our inner tranquility, and give us that winter glow. Danish scientist Dr Susanna Søberg leads us step by step into the icy water and explains the "cold-shock response", the massive endorphin rush as our body reacts and adapts to very cold temperatures through the winter season. Not only do our circulation, heart, lungs and skin respond positively, but our immune system, metabolism and mental health too. In particular she explains how our "brown fat" is activated to benefit multiple health conditions. Winter swimming is fast becoming one of our most popular pastimes. This beautifully illustrated exploration of cold-water traditions in Scandinavia and around the world shows how it can have a significant positive impact on our physical and mental health, confidence and well-being, providing such a boost to body and soul. Translated from the Danish by Elizabeth DeNoma INTRODUCTION CHAPTER 1. WINTER SWIMMING THROUGH TIME CHAPTER 2. WHY SWIM IN THE WINTER? CHAPTER 3. THE WHERE, HOW AND WHEN OF WINTER SWIMMING CHAPTER 4. BAPTISM BY FIRE CHAPTER 5. THE COLD-SHOCK RESPONSE CHAPTER 6. COLD ACCLIMATIZATION CHAPTER 7. BROWN FAT CHAPTER 8. ON YOUR OWN OR WITH A CLUB? CHAPTER 9. DANGER AND SAFETY IN COLD WATER CHAPTER 10. DOES IT MAKE YOU HEALTHIER? CHAPTER 11. WHAT WE CAN LEARN FROM OUR ANCESTORS CHAPTER 12. WINTER SWIMMING AND MENTAL HEALTH CHAPTER 13. IN THE SAUNA AFTERWORD ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS REFERENCES PICTURE CREDITS About the Author and Translator