While the initial shock of cold water can be intense, the long-term benefits make it a notable addition to health routines.

6). Evocative descriptions of cold water swimming by a writer like Liptrot can complement medical studies of circulation or hormonal cycles by showing how icy water feels to one’s body.

Taking a subzero jump one by one into the icy water. I felt prickling all over ... problems or you're not feeling great going in cold water is not going to help. She says even healthy people ...

Scantily clad shrine parishioners throw icy cold water on himself during the annual cold-endurance festival at Kanda Myojin Shinto shrine in Tokyo, Jan. 18. (AP Photo) ...