Cold Dip Kelowna is an ever-growing community of people who enjoy the benefits of bathing in cold water.
Some people might call them crazy, but to Tracy Cramer it has so many benefits.
Cramer started cold dips on a dare while living in the Shuswap. She’s glad to have found the Kelowna group after moving. “I love the grounding affect that I get from being in there. The breathing, you really have to concentrate on your breath and without the breathing it’s going to be a tough time in there. I think just being able to regulate as an adult is huge.”
Briann, a woman living with a disability, also took part in the cold dip. She was there with the assistance of CRIS (Community Recreational Initiatives Society) Adaptive Adventures program.
“It helps reduce my anxiety and helps reset the mind,” she said. Briann is able to participate in the cold plunge with CRIS’ adapted wheelchair. The adaptive equipment also allows her to get on hiking trails, with the area of Rose Valley being her favourite.
Briann is getting ready for the big Polar Bear Plunge on Jan. 1, 2024. The annual plunge is fundraising for CRIS Adaptive Adventures so more people like Briann can enjoy outdoor activities.
The dip on Dec. 10 was hosted by Jackson Kurtz. He welcomed the group with a meditation circle and encouraged those who were nervous or there for their first dip to just ask for assistance from the more experienced in the group.
The group meets every Sunday at 10 a.m. at Tug Boat Beach.
READ MORE: Sun’s out, buns out: A cool start to 2023 with Kelowna’s annual Polar Bear Dip
