How to bathe properly at baptism. Swimming for Epiphany: how to plunge into an ice hole correctly and who should not do it Swimming for Epiphany when to swim

With the Baptism of Rus' (in 988), it gradually spread among our ancestors. The blessing of water can only be performed by a priest - by reading the appropriate prayers and immersing the cross in water three times. On reservoirs, for this purpose, an ice hole is made in advance - “Jordan” - usually in the shape of a cross. Usually bodies of water - ponds, rivers, lakes - are consecrated on the feast of Epiphany itself, after the liturgy. Epiphany water is a shrine that is used for healing and to strengthen the mental and physical strength of us and our loved ones.

From some churches and on Epiphany Eve after the service, solemn processions are made to the ice holes in the reservoirs, they are blessed. Orthodox Christians scoop up holy water from this ice hole, wash themselves with it, and the bravest “dive” into the ice hole. The Russian tradition of swimming in ice holes dates back to the times of the ancient Scythians, who dipped their babies into icy water, accustoming them to the harsh nature.

When swimming in an ice hole at Epiphany

On January 19, 2016, Orthodox Christians celebrate the Epiphany. The holiday also has the name Epiphany and is celebrated annually on January 19th. Epiphany is one of the most ancient and revered holidays among Christians.

The baptism of Christ was performed by John the Baptist at his request. During his baptism on the Jordan River, the Holy Spirit descended on Jesus in the form of a dove. At the same time, a Voice from Heaven declared: “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” According to Christian teachings, it was on this day that God appeared in three persons: God the Father - in voice, the Son of God - in the flesh, and the Holy Spirit - in the form of a dove. That is why the feast of Epiphany is often called Epiphany. The holiday of Epiphany is very important. It is believed that it was baptism that revealed to the world...

Is it necessary to swim in an ice hole at Epiphany?

Is it necessary to swim at Epiphany? And if there is no frost, will bathing be Epiphany?

In any church holiday, it is necessary to distinguish between its meaning and the traditions that have developed around it. The main thing in the feast of the Epiphany is the Epiphany, the Baptism of Christ by John the Baptist, the voice of God the Father from heaven “This is my beloved Son” and the Holy Spirit descending on Christ. The main thing for a Christian on this day is presence at church services, confession and Communion of the Holy Mysteries of Christ, and communion of baptismal water.

The established traditions of swimming in cold ice holes are not directly related to the Feast of the Epiphany itself, are not mandatory and, most importantly, do not cleanse a person of sins, which, unfortunately, is discussed a lot in the media.

Such traditions should not be treated as magical rites - the holiday of the Epiphany is celebrated by Orthodox Christians in hot Africa, America, and Australia. After all…

While swimming in the icy Epiphany font, a person experiences approximately the same stress as during a parachute jump. To prevent such a test from resulting in a subsequent decrease in immunity, it is necessary to prepare for the dive in advance, gain a positive attitude and overcome the fear of icy water. If everything is done correctly and you take care of warm clothes, a soft towel and hot tea in advance, Epiphany will become one of the most joyful and unforgettable days of your life.

What you should know

Only healthy and seasoned people can swim in the ice hole. People with obesity, diseases of the cardiovascular system, arterial hypertension, respiratory diseases, chronic skin diseases and inflammation of the genitourinary system should not dive into Jordan. Swimming in ice water will not benefit people suffering from insomnia, as well as people with mental disorders. Such categories of citizens can perform the ritual at home by simply taking a contrast shower.

Orthodox people celebrate Epiphany, or Epiphany, on January 19, and the day before, on the 18th, they celebrate Epiphany Eve. There is a popular tradition among believers - to swim on this day. How to plunge into an ice hole at Epiphany without harming your health? We will try to sort this out.

Baptism is an important event in the Orthodox religion

On this day, believers celebrate two events in the history of religion at once - the baptism of the Son of God by John the Baptist in the waters of the river called Jordan, and the appearance of the Trinity of God, that is, the Epiphany. They say that from the moment of Baptism, Jesus Christ began to come out to people.

Epiphany completes the cycle of Christmas holidays and requires special preparation. Just as a strict fast is observed before Christmas, so on the eve of Epiphany it is necessary to adhere to the same strict Epiphany Eve.

Swimming in Jordan - healing the soul and body

For the holiday, they make an ice hole in the shape of a cross and call it “Jordan”...

One of the traditions at Epiphany is swimming in an ice hole. It is believed that water on Epiphany Eve, January 18, acquires healing properties. As a rule, on Epiphany Christmas Eve special illumination of the ice hole is carried out. For Epiphany, the pond is made in the shape of a cross and it is called “Jordan”, after the name of the river in which Jesus Christ was baptized.

Epiphany water is a shrine for Orthodox believers. They drink it to heal illnesses and strengthen physical and mental strength. Not everyone can decide to swim in an ice hole on Epiphany - not everyone can withstand the frost and icy water. If you decide to swim in an ice hole on Epiphany on January 18-19, then we suggest that you first familiarize yourself with the recommendations and rules for performing this ritual.

Rules for swimming in an ice hole for Epiphany

Swimming in an ice hole is a three-time immersion in water with your head. In progress…

On January 19, one of the most significant Christian holidays begins, and many cannot imagine it without personal participation - that is, immersion in icy Epiphany water in special ice holes. In Russia, on Epiphany, it is customary to bless water, including in natural reservoirs, for which a cross-shaped hole - a Jordan - is cut in the ice. Previously, those who took part in Christmas fortune-telling and mummery dipped into the ice hole primarily to wash away their sins. It was also believed that evil spirits, who freely walked the earth all Christmastide, were leaving for the Jordan. Water blessed at Epiphany is considered healing. The clergy wear white robes for this holiday.

It is believed that Epiphany water brings spiritual and physical health; About 600,000 people take part in Epiphany bathing in Russia on January 18 and 19 during the day.

The “great consecration of water” takes place in all churches. According to church canons, on Epiphany Eve a believer must come to church, serve in the service, light a candle, dial...

The Orthodox Church celebrates Epiphany or Epiphany on January 19 (new style). This is the most ancient holiday among Christians, and its establishment goes back to the times of the disciples and apostles of Christ. It also has ancient names: “Epiphany” - phenomenon, “Theophany” - Epiphany, “Holy Lights”, “Feast of Lights” or simply “Lights”, since it was the Lord Himself who came into the world on this day to show him the Light Unapproachable.

Holiday Epiphany

The word “baptize” or “baptize” from Greek is translated as “immersing in water.” It is almost impossible to understand the importance and the very meaning of what Epiphany bathing is without having an idea of ​​​​the symbolic meaning of water in the Old Testament.

Water is the beginning of life. It was she who fertilized all living beings that came from her. Where there is no water, there is a lifeless desert. And water can destroy, as during the Great Flood, when God flooded the sinful lives of people and thereby destroyed the evil that...

Epiphany 2017, when to swim from January 18 to 19? Orthodox believers celebrate Epiphany itself every year on the same date - January 19. Swimming in the consecrated ice holes begins after the service in the church, Epiphany Christmas Eve. That is, already on the night of January 18-19 you can plunge into the ice hole.

Read more about when to swim in the ice hole on Epiphany

January 18 is Epiphany Christmas Eve. The time before Epiphany or Epiphany, as this holiday is more popularly called. After the service that night, a great purification of water takes place in all churches. Every believer, according to church laws, on Christmas Eve of this holiday must hold a service, light a candle and draw blessed water.
No church rules force people to plunge into an ice hole at Epiphany.

Especially if a person is not ready for this. But, in most Russian cities, people actively join the tradition when they swim at Epiphany on January 18 or 19. You can swim in…

If you decide to swim in an ice hole on Epiphany, you need to find specially equipped swimming holes not far from the shore. You also need to be sure that you are under the supervision of rescuers.

The ladder for descending into the water must be stable.

Warm up

Before you plunge into the icy water, you should warm up. To do this you need to perform a set of physical exercises. It is advisable to run, swing your arms and legs.

This will reduce the stress on the body that comes from swimming in an ice hole. Read more about this here.

Gradually cool down

The body needs to get used to the temperature change. Therefore, you should undress gradually: take off your hat, after a few minutes - your scarf, jacket, clothes, then your shoes.

Dip correctly

You need to plunge up to your neck without getting your head wet. This way you can avoid reflex vasoconstriction...

The great holiday of Christians - Epiphany, in memory of Jesus Christ's acceptance of the sacrament of baptism on the Jordan River, is celebrated on January 19 and which ends the Christmas holidays. People believe that at Epiphany, when water is blessed in churches and monasteries, it becomes incorruptible and may not deteriorate for many years, even if it is in a closed container. And this happens every year, and only on the day of Epiphany. It has already become a widespread tradition among Kiev residents to plunge into the icy Dnieper waters during the celebration of the Epiphany during a special ceremony by the clergy. On this day, ministers of Kyiv churches illuminate the Dnieper River and reservoirs, and also bless people for swimming in Jordans - specially carved in the ice and blessed ice holes.

Recently, bathing at Epiphany has become more and more popular. If someone decides to participate in the sacrament of Epiphany bathing, they should prepare in advance and take into account...

What date is Epiphany in 2017? This very important day for believers is celebrated in our country on January 19 every year. This is a holiday in memory of the event in which Jesus Christ sanctified water with his baptism, and also showed that He is both man and God. A distinctive feature of this winter day is the blessing of water; in all churches, as well as in some open reservoirs, a great blessing of water is performed. In addition to the fact that everyone on the day of Epiphany strives to bring a vessel with Holy water from the church, another tradition of this holiday is swimming in an ice hole, and there are also special signs for Epiphany.

After a cheerful week and a half since Christmas, with fortune telling and dressing up as mummers, people would like to wash away these sins, and some dare to dive into the ice hole, despite the frosty days. In addition, Epiphany water has healing powers, and swimming in the consecrated ice hole promises good health for the whole year. Water tends to remember information, so after absorbing...

To answer the question of when to swim in the ice hole at Epiphany 2017, you just need to look at the church calendar to see exactly what day this big holiday falls on. The Orthodox calendar indicates that Epiphany in 2017, like other years before, is celebrated on January 19.

Although, the question of swimming in an ice hole among believers arises due to the fact that holiday services are held in churches on the 18th and the blessing of water, including in the ice hole, is carried out precisely at night from January 18 to 19. Well, since the consecration has taken place, and the day of the Epiphany holiday itself has arrived, then you can, among other things, plunge into the ice hole during the night from the 18th to the 19th.

Jordan - an ice hole for Baptism

In addition to the fact that it is important to determine when to swim in the ice hole for Epiphany 2017, it is important to remember other important traditions and features of the holiday. In particular, on the day of Epiphany (the second name of the holiday of Epiphany in honor of the fact that when...

For many unchurched people, Baptism is only the blessing of water and swimming in an ice hole. This is partly true, because every year more and more people come to swim in the ice hole on this day: believers and undecideds, baptized and atheists, hardened and afraid of the cold, healthy and sick. Having plunged into the icy January water, everyone emerges from the ice hole happy, inspired, and warmed up. Because, they say, at Epiphany the water in the ice hole is “warm.”

What date to swim in 2017

This Christian Orthodox holiday belongs to the permanent twelve holidays and is celebrated every year on the same day - January 19. And in 2017, to the question, baptism 2017 on what date to swim, the answer remains the same - January 19.

In fact, swimming begins in the evening of January 18th. Immediately after the evening service, the priest, together with the parish, goes on a religious procession to the reservoir to bless the water. On the night of January 18-19, there was water in all rivers, lakes, seas...

The holiday of Epiphany is celebrated every year on January 6 for Catholics and January 19 for Orthodox believers, according to the official modern calendar. This holiday is associated with the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River.

The holiday begins on the evening of January 18, when all Orthodox Christians celebrate Epiphany Eve.
The Feast of Epiphany closes the twelve holy days. On this day, the Church celebrates the entry of Jesus Christ onto the path of serving people and the beginning of his preaching.

Christmas and Epiphany, connected by Christmastide, constitute a single celebration - the Feast of Epiphany. It is in the unity of these holidays that all three faces of the Holy Trinity appear to us.

On the day of Epiphany, everywhere in churches, on rivers, lakes, a water blessing is performed, a ritual of consecrating water in an ice hole made in the form of an Orthodox cross.

Blessing of water for Epiphany

The Lord created water as an element of life, but human sin made it a source of death. When human sin increased by...

The New Year holidays have come to an end. Tomorrow is Epiphany. And although the weather outside my window is not Epiphany weather at all - there are puddles on the asphalt from the night rain, which means that

the temperature outside is above zero - for me Epiphany remains one of the most mysterious and enigmatic holidays. On this day, the Universe lifts the curtain and we can find out our future, solve seemingly insoluble problems, and get answers to questions that concern us.

If anyone doesn’t know, Epiphany as a holiday was established in honor of the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River. The ritual of baptism itself implies repentance, deliverance from sins. And although Jesus had nothing to repent of, he, showing humility, accepted Baptism from John and thereby sanctified the watery nature. Since then, on the day of Epiphany, all the world’s waters, the waters of the entire Earth - from a small stream to the oceans - become holy on this day. This also applies to tap water. You don't have to go to church to get holy water...

This is one of the biggest New Year holidays. But not everyone knows what day to swim in the ice hole. When and why this needs to be done, we will now tell you in the article.

• Let's figure out the dates
• Basic rules for dipping
• The meaning of diving into an ice hole
• Bathing process
• Main mistakes
• Is this really necessary?
• Contraindications

Let's figure out the dates

Very often in January you can hear the following question: “When should you dive into the ice hole, on the 18th or 19th?”

It is customary that believers should come to church on January 18th. On this day you need to pray and bless the water. But on Epiphany, on the 19th, you need to swim in an ice hole.




But this should be done at night. Optimal time for swimming: from 00.10 to 01.30. It is in this interval that water will have healing properties. She will be able to heal people from illnesses and forgive sins.

Basic rules for dipping

At first glance, this ritual is very simple. But it only seems so, you need to familiarize yourself with the important rules:

1. Quick dive. The sooner you dive, the lower your risk of hypothermia.

2. 20 second rule. This is the ideal time to stay in cold water. During these seconds, blood will have time to reach the heart. But if you are diving for the first time, then stay in the icy water for at least 10-15 seconds.




3. Drying with a towel. If you do this right away, you may damage the skin or small capillaries.

4. Dress quickly. Prepare comfortable clothes in advance and leave them as close to the ice hole as possible.

5. Jogging. Running will help you warm up quickly. Immediately after getting dressed, go for a run along the river bank. Or do some exercise.

The meaning of diving into an ice hole

The ritual of bathing in cold water can protect you from many diseases. But it is better to prepare for this procedure in advance. For example, douse yourself with cold water at home. The more the body is hardened, the easier the ritual of swimming in an ice hole will be.

During a dive, kilocalories of heat are lost. Therefore, a protective reaction is triggered in the body - the pores narrow and blood flows to the most important organs. This is necessary to retain heat.

Also, the heart beats faster and blood pressure rises. After all, blood circulation occurs in smaller volumes.

Bathing process

Before diving, the ice hole is blessed. Also, there is a special entrance there. You can approach the ice hole undressed, but you need to take off your shoes at the last moment. For example, you can take warm slippers or wool socks with you. You are not allowed to dive in swimsuits. This should be done in shirts so as not to expose your body.

Plunge completely into the water several times and quickly get out of there. If you stay in the cold for a long time, your limbs will cramp. Immediately throw a large towel or blanket over yourself. Hot tea or coffee will help you warm up.

Main mistakes

To make swimming as comfortable as possible, familiarize yourself with the main misconceptions:

· Partial immersion. If you decide to dive, then you need to do it with your whole body. Very often people do not wash their heads and make a serious mistake. After all, a sharp temperature change inside the body can cause vasospasm.

If you have long hair, use a shower cap. After all, you won’t be able to dry your hair quickly.




· Wrong food. We have already told you that kilocalories of heat are lost during a dive. Therefore, you need to stock up on energy. It can be obtained from fatty foods. Such as: lard, nuts, bread, raisins and others. Eat this food before swimming.

· Patting on the body. Even if you hit your skin lightly, you can injure it.

· Warm up. Very often, people get very hot before swimming. But this is absolutely impossible to do. After all, then there will be an even greater temperature difference and the person will suffer greatly. As a result, the muscles will receive microtrauma.

· Drinking alcoholic beverages. The church prohibits drinking alcohol on this holiday. Also, it only gives a temporary feeling of warmth. After dilation, the blood vessels will quickly narrow, and you will freeze even faster.

Is this really necessary?

On this day, you must attend the service and confess. But you can do without diving into an ice hole. After all, this is not a mandatory ritual.

The clergy believe that if a person believes in the special properties of water, then he only needs to wash his face with cold water.

Contraindications

It is prohibited to swim in the following cases:

· If you have any serious illness, it is better to skip the procedure of diving into ice water. Also, you should not swim if you have a high fever or other illness. Even

The disease is very mild or not very serious, it is better to abstain. There could be dire consequences.

· Pregnant girls are not allowed to swim. After all, a sharp change in temperature can provoke premature contractions. Or more serious problems.

· If you have problems with your heart or blood pressure, do not go swimming in cold water. This will only worsen your health problems.

· Also, you should not dive into cold water if you have diabetes or problems with urination.

Baptism has its own rituals and traditions, a rich history. And the most important thing is to understand the meaning inherent in this holiday. Epiphany is an important day of the year for Orthodox people. After all, it is then that a person’s spiritual renewal occurs.

In Rus', it was believed that swimming in ice water could heal a person’s body and soul and cleanse them of all sins committed in the past year. Of course, it will not be possible to cleanse yourself of sins with the help of an ice hole alone. But the tradition is long-standing and many believers observe it. Therefore, we must do it correctly.

The Baptism of the Lord Jesus Christ is one of the twelve most important Orthodox holidays during the year. The day when they swim in the ice hole on Epiphany 2018 is, rather, the night from the 18th to the 19th, as well as the entire day of Epiphany itself, a few days after the holiday.

A little history of the holiday

John the Baptist baptized Jesus Christ on the Jordan River. During this holy act, the Holy Spirit descended on Jesus Christ in the form of a dove. It is for this reason that after the consecration of the ice hole on the night of Christmas Eve, it is customary to release two doves into the sky. In the old days they used to shoot blank cartridges into the sky after releasing pigeons. But now the shooting ritual has not been preserved. Plus, very rarely, the ritual of releasing doves is now used.

On the day of the Baptism of Jesus Christ, God appeared in three of his faces at once. It was God the Father - the voice, God the Son - the flesh, and God the Holy Spirit - the dove. For this reason, the feast of Epiphany is often called Epiphany. Only after the moment of his baptism did Jesus Christ begin to preach the word of God on earth and actively educate people.

Celebration of Epiphany

The day of January 19 is the time when they dive into the ice hole for Epiphany in 2018. But it should be remembered that the priests especially emphasize this; this is not the only tradition of such a big holiday. The celebration begins on the evening of January 18 - Christmas Eve. The traditions of Christmas Eve at Epiphany are in many ways similar to the traditions of Christmas Eve at Christmas. Kutya must be served on the table; you must go to church. Kissel and pancakes are also served on the table on Christmas Eve.

Blessing the water, and then taking the holy water home or swimming in an ice hole is the most important part of the celebration of Epiphany. A cut in the form of a cross is cut out on a river or lake near the church. The cross is placed next to the ice hole and doused with beet juice. People are not afraid of the cold during Epiphany and actively plunge into the ice hole. After all, it is believed that water from this day onwards is not capable of harming a believer and spiritual person. Swimming in an ice hole brings a person at Epiphany not only health of the body, but also health of the soul.

Rules for swimming in an ice hole

So, swimming in an ice hole is an introduction to the grace of God. But you can’t force yourself and force yourself to get into the water if you don’t want to. Those who suffer from certain diseases should especially refrain from swimming in the ice hole.

Those who decide to plunge into the ice hole should know how to do it correctly. Jordan must be consecrated, but there are simply no strict rules on how to swim. Basically, it's quickly immersing your head in water three times. You need to be baptized and say the words of prayer. You should swim in shirts, not swimsuits. It is considered inappropriate to expose your body during the immersion process.

Epiphany water has its own healing properties. It is for this reason that many believers are attracted to the ice hole. But, it should be remembered that you can feel the healing properties of holy water simply by bathing.

What can you do with holy water:

• The water does not spoil throughout the year. You can use it during illness: drink a sip in the morning on an empty stomach, immediately after prayer.
• The water should be stored in a tightly closed container next to the icons. This is not just a liquid, but a religious relic.
• You can sprinkle your home with this water to drive out evil spirits.

Folk traditions of Epiphany

What other folk traditions existed besides plunging into an ice hole at Epiphany? Traditionally, as already mentioned, pigeons were released. They were a sign of Divine grace, which descended on him during the baptism of Jesus Christ.

Also in Rus', at the first ringing of the bell, believers lit a fire on the river bank. It was kindled so that Jesus, after baptism, could warm himself by the fire. In general, more signs than beliefs were associated with this day. After Epiphany, it was forbidden to wash clothes in the river.

Whether to swim in an ice hole at Epiphany or not, every believer must decide this question for himself. But it is important to believe in what you are doing and to be close to God not only with your actions, but also with your thoughts. Only with such a combination can holy water bring a person the miracles that he expects.

Having become a tradition over the centuries, swimming in an ice hole made in a reservoir during the ancient Christian holiday of Epiphany raises many questions among people of different confessions and non-believers. This is truly a way to physically and spiritually cleanse a person, or a beautiful tribute to fashion. What happens at the moment of immersion in an ice bath and who will benefit from such a procedure.

Traditions of the holiday of Epiphany

Baptism is on January 19 and the very tradition of plunging into an ice font dates back to 988, from the time of the introduction of Christianity in Kievan Rus. According to biblical history, Jesus, at his personal request, was baptized on this very day. During the ceremony of John the Baptist, Jesus was in the waters of the Jordan River, the Holy Spirit descended on him in the form of a dove and a voice from above, proclaiming him the son of God. This event became the basis of the holiday. The word baptism itself, translated from ancient Greek, means direct immersion in water. It is believed that through baptism God made the water holy, that is, having special healing properties. Considering that water in the Old Testament is considered the basis of all living things, the importance of this tradition becomes clear.

After the Divine Liturgy, water is blessed in all churches. At this time of the Blessing of Water, all water elements are also endowed with miraculous qualities. To conduct Epiphany bathing, crowded processions are held in the cross-shaped ice hole, which in Christianity are called the Procession of the Cross to the Jordan. It is believed that a body washed with holy water, like a purified soul that has believed in the Savior, will receive health and blessing, and will join the sacrament of the Holy Trinity. In addition to the Christian overtones, the tradition of such bathing has been known since the times of the ancient Scythians and earlier pagan rituals. In this way, newborns were initiated into warriors, healed, and hardened to adapt to the harsh climate.

Features of swimming in an ice hole

On the day of the Epiphany holiday, to make it accessible to everyone, water bodies are specially equipped in accordance with all safety rules; ice holes must be in the form of a cross. After the consecration of the ice hole, people can get water, wash, and the most determined ones can swim. If the body is relatively adapted to the cold, then the mood before swimming is of great importance. The living structure of water can change under the influence of certain information, so when plunging into an ice hole, you need to tune in only to a positive influence. Directly during a dive, many processes occur at lightning speed in the human body:

• under short-term exposure to cold, the cerebral cortex and central nervous system are mobilized, which is positive for the body;
• a stressful situation leads to a jump in immunity, pain relief, relief of inflammation, spasms, swelling;
• under the influence of cold water, internal forces are released, body temperature can reach 40° for a few seconds, causing the death of pathogenic microbes, viruses, and cells;
• The thermal conductivity of water is 28 times greater than air, which gives a huge hardening effect.

Considering the listed advantages of the cold water immersion procedure, we can confidently speak about its benefits. Despite the fact that in principle no special physical preparation is required for such a bath, in some cases there may be a number of difficult moments. Official medicine recommends dipping without fear for middle-aged men and women without complex pathologies. In any case, the sacrament of bathing at Epiphany is a deeply individual decision for each person.

How to properly bathe on Epiphany

In addition to the appropriate attitude, such bathing requires adherence to certain rules that help to carry out the ritual correctly and safely. The main point, especially during mass events, is the presence of a specially equipped ice hole. The ice hole should be located at a water depth of no more than 1.8 m, well fenced to avoid accidental falls, and equipped with steps and handrails for descent. Everyone who wants to plunge into the ice hole must have a swimsuit or swimming trunks, a warm robe, a towel, a set of dry clothes, underwear, slippers or woolen socks.

Before starting, it is recommended to warm up slightly, for example by jogging, doing squats or simple exercises. In this case, the body should not be sweaty, but only hot. To prevent a sharp narrowing of the blood vessels in the brain, there is no need to wet your head, but it is better to plunge only up to your neck. You cannot jump into the ice hole; you must begin the dive from your feet. Swimming is not recommended; after plunging three times, it is better to get out immediately and not stay in the water for more than 1 minute. Immediately after bathing, dry yourself with a towel and immediately put on dry underwear and clothes. Often a towel may not even be useful, since the skin dries out instantly. But following the church rules, when swimming in the Epiphany ice hole, you need to plunge headlong three times. In this case, there should be a short sincere prayer addressed to God; according to the Orthodox belief, this charges the water with enormous power.

Contraindications for swimming

It is strictly forbidden to drink alcoholic beverages immediately before or after swimming. Alcohol in the blood has a bad effect on the body's thermoregulation, sometimes with unforeseen consequences. Under its influence, the vessels expand, increasing heat consumption. For some time after consumption, a person may feel a surge of warmth, but then the opposite effect occurs sharply and one can get a serious cold. You should also not smoke, as blood circulation is impaired. Immediately after dipping, it is better to drink a herbal decoction or hot tea. Swimming in a cold ice hole on a full or empty stomach is harmful.

While the benefits of Epiphany bathing are obvious, the category of contraindications includes the presence of chronic or acute diseases. These include disorders of the cardiovascular, endocrine and nervous systems, as well as all kinds of inflammation of the genitourinary system, nasopharynx, and otitis media. It is not recommended to plunge into an ice hole if you have suffered injuries, encephalitis, epilepsy and other complex pathologies. To avoid harm and receive only benefits, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

Where to swim on Epiphany in Moscow? This question interests more and more residents of the capital’s metropolis every year. There is nothing to be surprised here: over the past decades, a huge part of Russians have turned to religion, and many began to remember Orthodox holidays and traditions.

The question of where to swim on Epiphany in Moscow has also become relevant because there is a legend: those who plunge into an ice hole on the day of Holy Epiphany will not get sick for a whole year. Residents of the capital's metropolis believe that Epiphany water can heal not only the body, but also the soul. However, you need to remember that not every person is recommended to swim on the night of January 18-19. And even more so, residents of Belokamennaya should know where to swim on Epiphany in Moscow.

Epiphany is a revered holiday among Russians

Surely no one will dispute the fact that Epiphany is a significant holiday for the Orthodox, and the tradition of swimming in cold water on the night of January 18-19 did not appear yesterday. Despite this, few residents of the capital's metropolis know exactly when and where to swim on Epiphany in Moscow.

Representatives of the Orthodox Church say that you can wash your body in an ice hole at any time during the holiday. However, we should not forget that the liturgy falls on the morning of January 19: it is at this time that the fonts are consecrated, after which the body and soul can be healed.

Unique properties of healing water

Even doctors of science and academicians agree that Epiphany water has unusual properties. The clergy, in turn, declare that on the day of Holy Epiphany the water is in its pristine state. In other words, she becomes the way the Almighty created her.

Features of bathing at Epiphany

Epiphany should not be viewed as some kind of water festival. It is very important to attend the liturgy on this day. After this procedure, representatives of the clergy begin to consecrate the water, which then does not lose its unique properties throughout the year.

On this day it is customary to swim in an ice hole. And in this regard, a huge number of residents of the capital are interested not only in the question of where to swim at Epiphany in Moscow, but also in whether this ritual is acceptable for everyone. Of course, anyone, if they wish, has the right to swim in cold water on the night of January 18-19. However, a caveat must be made here: if there are health contraindications, then you should avoid swimming in the ice hole. It is very important to consult your doctor about this. Moreover, sadly, the list of contraindications is quite long. First of all, we are talking about cardiovascular diseases, diseases of the genitourinary system and respiratory tract. Pregnant women should also not swim in the ice hole.

For those who are haunted by the question of where to swim at Epiphany in Moscow, it would be useful to warn: in the process of swimming in ice water, even a healthy person is not immune from death, since hypothermia can cause vasospasm and cardiac arrest.

What to remember first

Under no circumstances should you rush into cold water. Enter slowly so that your body has time to adapt to the new environment. After swimming, you should also not quickly leave the font to minimize the risk of sudden temperature changes.

What else should all those who are interested in where to swim at Epiphany in Moscow need to know? It is forbidden to dive into the ice hole alone. This must be done in special places where rescuers are on duty. If you still can’t wait to dive headfirst into the cold water, swim in the presence of friends who can back you up in case of a banal cramp.

Swimming areas

It should be noted that the list of places for Epiphany is very impressive. This year, more than fifty swimming pools were provided, and all conditions for comfortable diving were created for people: there is a place to undress, rub yourself and drink warming tea after water procedures. In particular, residents of the capital living in the Vykhino metro area can take advantage of the recreation area near White Lake. Muscovites who own apartments in the Shchelkovskaya metro area can go to Babaevsky Pond. In the Konkovo ​​metro area you can swim in the Teply Stan park. For those who live near the Strogino metro station, we recommend visiting the park in the village of Rublevo. In the Novogireevo metro area there are Rainbow ponds. On the territory of Novokosino on the night of January 18-19, you will be able to swim in Here's where to swim on Epiphany in Moscow! The list of places goes on and on.

Now let’s look at the bathing zones based on the principle of administrative-territorial division.

Central Administrative District

In the central part of the Russian capital, there are two areas for swimming in the ice hole: Catherine Park and Revolution Square. The first one is equipped with wooden ramps. The site has additional lighting and places for changing clothes. There are also tents where you can warm up with tea. The swimmers will be monitored by law enforcement officers: the Ministry of Emergency Situations and the Department of Internal Affairs - if emergency situations arise, they will be ready to help.

Russians always celebrate Epiphany in a special way. Few people know where to swim in Moscow on the night of January 18-19.

The second popular place for swimming is this year. This year, two wooden fonts were installed here, changing cabins were equipped, and after water procedures, those who wished were offered. Before the procedure, the water was blessed, and the corresponding prayer service was served by one of the clergy of the Epiphany Cathedral of Elokhovsky.

In the event of a force majeure situation, the victims will immediately receive qualified medical care, since ambulance teams are on duty at the site.

SAO

Of course, due to the huge number, it is impossible to list all the places where you can swim in Moscow. Epiphany is a revered holiday among Russians, many of whom go to the ice hole on this day without fail.

In the north of the capital, there are three fonts where you can heal your soul and body on the night of January 18-19. Firstly, this is the Khimki Reservoir, located at Pribrezhny Proezd, 1-7. Secondly, we are talking about the Big Garden Pond, which is located on Bolshaya Akademicheskaya Street, 47. And thirdly, we should mention the water area of ​​the Khimki Reservoir near the water reservoir, which is located on Leningradskoye Shosse, 47-49. This year, residents of the Northern Administrative District could witness the procession of the Cross, which began from the Church of St. George the Victorious and ended at the Timiryazevsky Ponds.

NEAD

Undoubtedly, the great holiday is Epiphany. Where can residents of the North-Eastern Administrative District swim in an ice hole in Moscow?

It should be noted that a swimming pool is organized for them on the Palace Pond, which is located at Pervaya Ostankino, 7A. The procession of the Cross also takes place here. Those who wish to attend the liturgy can go to the Church of the Life-Giving Trinity in Ostankino, which is located on 1st Ostankinskaya Street, 7. A locker room has been installed near the font, and representatives of the Ministry of Emergency Situations and ambulance workers are monitoring safety on the water.

VAO

What other baptismal fonts can be noted in Moscow? Where to swim, in particular, for those who live in the east of the metropolitan metropolis? Here we can recommend several such places. First of all, we are talking about Lake Beloye, which is located at Bolshaya Kosinskaya, 46. Secondly, you can go for a swim at the lake located on the street. Orangereinaya, 18. Also, residents of the Eastern Administrative District prefer to take water procedures on the night of January 18-19, which are located at Svobodny Prospekt, 9. In addition, you should go to the Red Pond, located in the Izmailovsky Forest Park. You can also take a dip in the cold water at Epiphany at Babaevsky Pond, which is located at the address: st. Kurganskaya, 5-9. The above-mentioned baths are equipped with handrails and flooring, so getting into and out of the water will not be difficult. There will also be food stations near the swimming areas, so those who wish can have a snack and drink tea. In addition, the organizers took care of placing temporary pavilions to warm people.

SEAD

Many people are interested in the question of where Muscovites can swim on Epiphany in the southeast of the capital? We can recommend the baths at Shibaevsky (Zarechya St., 14), Nizhny Lyublinsky (Shkuleva St., 26), Verkhny Kuzminsky (Kuzminskaya St., 10) ponds. In the above-mentioned places, ramps and bridges have been built, as well as changing rooms.

Southern Administrative District

Where can residents of the Southern Administrative District take a swim for baptism in Moscow? It should be noted Borisovskie Ponds (Borisovskie Prudy St., 2G), Beket Pond (Zagorodnoye Shosse, No. 2), and, of course, the Upper Tsaritsynsky Pond (Dolskaya St., No. 1). This year, more than twenty thousand people swam in the south of the capital on the night of January 18-19. Warm tents and food stations were also set up here.

South-Western Administrative District

In the South-Western Administrative District there are also several places where you can go to swim in the ice hole on Epiphany night. Let's list a few famous fonts. You can go to the pond of the Uzkoe sanatorium (Profsoyuznaya str., 123 B), a pond in the cottage village, which is located at the intersection of Pontryagina and Ostafievskaya streets. Muscovites also like to dive into the ice holes of the Vorontsovsky (Church of the Life-Giving Trinity) and Chernevsky (Yuzhnobutovskaya St., 61) ponds. According to established tradition, Epiphany bathing is held at two churches in the prefecture after the liturgy.

Company

In the west of the metropolitan metropolis, there are four points where you can swim in the icy water on Epiphany. First of all, we are talking about the floodplain of the Moscow River (Rublevo village) and the above-mentioned river (Bolshaya Filevskaya St., 40 A). You can go to Lake Meshcherskoye, which is located on the street. Voskresenskaya, 3 A. It is noteworthy that the above mentioned baths are located near public transport stops, so it is quite convenient to get to them. In addition, each swimming place is fenced with a special net, which prevents the current from carrying a person to the bottom. It is also very convenient to go to the water here thanks to the gently sloping shore. Rescue teams carefully monitor water safety. After the procedures, bathers can drink tea, coffee and taste delicious baked goods.

SZAO

In this part of the city, we can recommend the following places for swimming in the ice hole: Small Bottomless Lake, which is located at the address: st. Tamanskaya, 91. This aquatic ecosystem is considered the first font on the scale of not only the district, but also the capital. Many people go for a swim in the icy water in the Serebryany Bor park area, which covers an area of ​​about 100 square meters. Some prefer the Stroganov floodplain (16 Tvardovskogo St.), as well as the pond located in the village of Rozhdestveno (Simferopol highway). All baths have conditions for comfortable swimming, and ladders for descending into the water. Ambulance teams are ready at any moment to provide medical assistance if necessary.

ZelAO

Zelenograd residents can swim in an ice hole on Epiphany night in two places: on Shkolnoye Lake, which is located in the Silino district, and on Black Lake, which is located on Lesnye Prudy Alley in the 6th microdistrict.

New Moscow

Residents of the Trinity and Novomoskovsky districts of the capital can swim on the night of January 18-19 in the following places: a pond near the Archangel Michael Church in Bylovo, a pond in Pokrovsky, a pond in Knutovo.