Over 80 people got together to celebrate the arrival of winter Tuesday (Dec. 21), with dozens immersing themselves in the frigid waters of the Pacific Ocean at a Winter Solstice Swim and Dance Party.
Cold dippers in Greater Victoria and around the world have touted the benefits to be gleaned from entering cold bodies of water.
Kit Warren co-organized the Victoria dip in Beach Cove below Dallas Road, opposite the Beacon Hill Park flagpole. He said the practice is enlivening and provides one with an immune system boost.
“It reminds you to breathe, and when you breathe you’re also reminded of your fire within and the heat that you have the power to create,” said Warren, a member of the Mile Zero Minnows, a small group who dip together daily at 9 a.m. at the same ocean cove.
As a former fireman, Warren said he swims for first responders – having experienced several traumatic events, he said this practice brings him back to himself.
Join the Oddballs Victoria Facebook group to find a group near you who dip together year-round.
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