from a personal challenge to a winter ritual
Winter Swimming in Spiez
When I first ventured into Lake Thun during the Covid pandemic, the water was around eight to ten degrees Celsius. I was curious and wanted to find out how my body would react to the cold. To be honest, back then it was mainly about proving something to myself and testing my limits. I wasn’t yet able to truly embrace the cold.
Today, things are different. Between November and February, winter swimming has become part of my Sunday morning routine about once a week. My favourite spot is Walenrain next to Spiez Castle. You can park nearby, enter the water easily and, if you’re lucky, watch the sunrise over the lake. I find this combination of cold, tranquillity and nature incredibly fascinating.
Before entering the water, I usually take some time for a short breathing exercise and sometimes a warm-up routine. I then slowly enter the water until my upper body and neck are submerged. I focus on my breathing and stay in for as long as feels right that day. After my winter swim, a pleasant warmth flows through my body, which I enjoy for two or three minutes. Then I quickly dry off, put on dry clothes and warm up with a hot cup of tea.
What began as a personal challenge has now become a ritual that is about much more than simply overcoming the cold. After swimming, I feel awake, energised and mentally stronger. At the same time, I feel grateful to be able to experience this moment in such a beautiful place.
Anyone interested in trying winter swimming should not feel they have anything to prove. The most important thing is to enter the water only if you feel physically fit and ready. For your first attempts, it is advisable to go with experienced winter swimmers. For safety reasons, I would not enter cold water alone. If you have any health concerns, it is advisable to seek medical advice beforehand.
Silas
