Walrushing
at the baltic sea
Walruses past & present
Back in ancient times, after relaxing baths in the Roman baths, guests immersed themselves in pools of cold water, often additionally cooled by snow. The cold water then served to close the pores of the skin and calm the heated body. Walrus bathing, also known among northern peoples, originated from ancient rituals for cleansing and strengthening the body. In the 19th century, winter bathing began to be documented in Scandinavia, where it quickly gained popularity among health-conscious people. In Poland, walruses gained popularity at the beginning of the 21st century thanks to groups of enthusiasts who started to organise joint baths in the Baltic Sea. Social media made the trend spread rapidly, attracting more and more people. Today, walrting is not only a form of physical activity, but also an opportunity to integrate and experience winter adventures together. The Linea Mare Hotel in Pobierowo is happy to support and promote this unique tradition.
What is walrushing?
Walrus bathing involves immersing the body in cold water - this can be a lake, sea, river or other natural body of water. Water is considered cold when its temperature is between 8 and 12°C. A standard walrus bath lasts between 3 and 5 minutes, although those with experience can last up to several minutes in icy water.
Beneficial effects of walruses
Immune system:
- improving immunity,
- antioxidant effect,
- improving physical performance,
- increase in leukocytes & monocytes.
Cardiovascular system:
- slowing down the heart rate,
- reduction in blood pressure,
- reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Benefits of walruses
Endocrine system:
- increase in cortisol,
- antioxidant impact,
- increase in insulin sensitivity,
- decrease in triglycerides & noradrenaline.
Psychological impact:
- memory improvement,
- antidepressant action,
- increasing resistance to stress.
Contraindications
- Walruses and varicose veins - Exposure to cold causes blood vessels to contract, which can reduce swelling and theoretically provide relief for people with varicose veins. However, it is worth bearing in mind that the sudden change in temperature can exacerbate varicose vein symptoms in some people. Caution is therefore advised and this form of therapy should be consulted with a doctor.
- Walruses and hypertension - People with hypertension should avoid cold baths or approach them with great caution, as exposure to cold water can raise blood pressure, putting additional stress on the cardiovascular system.
- Walrus bathing during a cold - Regular bathing in cold water can support immunity, but immersion during an ongoing infection such as a cold can further weaken a body that is already fighting pathogens. If this is the case, it is advisable to forgo walruses until fully recovered.
Rules for safe walruses
Start in autumn
This will help your body gradually get used to the increasingly colder water.
Avoid walruses in strong winds
It is better to walrus in a sheltered area or give up
if conditions are unfavourable.
Never walrus after consuming alcohol
This increases the risk of hypothermia and other dangers.
Don't walrus alone
- Always choose your company, especially if you
are a beginner. Emergencies may require assistance.
Perform a warm-up
The warm-up should be moderate so as not to use
up the energy needed to warm up the body in the
water. Do aerobic exercises (trotting, jumping jacks, push-ups). It is best to start in your clothes and
continue in your swimsuit for a few minutes.
Safety boots, cap and gloves
The boots will protect the feet from injury, which may not be noticeable in cold temperatures. A cap and gloves are optional, but can make walruses more comfortable for beginners.
Enter the water slowly
Avoid jumping and plunging violently. Don't
submerge your head or face - especially at the
beginning.
First immersion = 3 minutes
Beginners should not stay longer in the water.
Watch your mood
At the first sign of discomfort or feeling unwell, get out of the water.
After the walrus
- Dry off quickly and change into dry, warm clothes.
- Perform light warm-up exercises.
- Drink warm tea or soup to warm up your body.
- Do not undertake physical exercise after walruses - the body needs time to recover.
- Following these rules will allow you to enjoy walruses in a safe way.
Walruses every Sunday!
- When: every week, on Sunday at 12:00
- Where: Exit 39 from Jana z Kolna Street - 1500m from Linea Mare
- Who: Organised by Klub Morsow Ośmiornica Pobierowo
