If you google polar bear plunging, you will see hundreds of people half-dressed, of all ages, standing on a frigid bank and running into freezing cold water.
What's not to like?
My very first polar bear plunge was done with my ~80 year old boss at college. I was skeptical and didn't really want to do it. But, if he did it, and got the award for oldest plunger + longest time spent in the water, then I could too! Since then, his last plunge was 2019 (at age 85!)
"You weren't allowed to go underneath the water," he said, "but I did it anyway!"
It did feel crazy. Being outside in January even fully dressed was painful with the wind stinging your skin and your extremities going numb. As I watched the chunks of ice float down the gray, murky Shenango River, I danced in place, nervously awaiting the "Go!". Then, the stampede ensued, followed by splashing and screaming. My mind and body disconnected at this point with my feet moving alongside the other surging bodies, the grayness fast approaching. Then, needles. Sharp, icy needles pricking my entire body in an awful form of acupuncture. As much as I wanted to sprint in, dunk, and sprint back out, the water and iciness slowed me down, making the return to the bank feel like wading through jello. But, the rocky ground reappeared beneath my feet as everyone surrounding me rushed to find a towel and some warmth. Steam came off our bodies as the chorus of "Ah Oh Ow Ahhhhh!" billowed from the crowd.
It was great.
In January 2020, I plunged again, but this time in Bear Lake, Utah with my brother. Then, in January 2023, Cayuga Lake was graced with the presence of 7 crazy friends.
Why do I, and many others, keep doing this silly thing?
Sometimes plunges are for charity events, but mostly there is the hype of doing something you never (or rarely) do with other people. Everyone shares a nervous yet excited energy. It's silly, exhilarating, and fun to leave your comfort zone, even if it's for 20 seconds.
Your turn, mom!
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