Diving into Finnish traditions
Imagine stepping into the icy waters of a frozen lake, the chill racing up your spine as you prepare for a dip. Winter in here in the north uncovers a breathtaking wonderland of frozen lakes and frosty landscapes. In this winter paradise, a unique and refreshing activity has been enjoyed for decades, if not centuries —ice swimming. At Lilja the Label, a sustainable Finnish swimwear brand, we believe in celebrating the beauty of our coastline year-round and embracing the experience of ice swimming. Join us as we dive into the world of ice swimming and explore how our swimwear can enhance this amazing Finnish tradition.
For us, ice swimming is more than just a plunge into icy waters; it's a profound connection with nature. The frozen lakes and (usually) the snow create an awe-inspiring backdrop. By ice swimming, we deepen our bond with nature and gain a renewed sense of appreciation for the quieter season that often is overlooked —at least when it comes to swimwear.
We design swimwear that allows you to fully embrace everything your local coastline has to offer while minimising your environmental impact. Each piece is carefully made using sustainable materials, such as ECONYL® regenerated nylon, ensuring that your winter adventures leave no trace behind.
We are often asked whether ice swimming demands something different from swimwear, and the answer is no. You don't, for example, need your winter swimsuit to be made from different materials than your summer favourites. However, our sustainable swimwear is designed to stay as your favourite for seasons to come, regardless of the time of the year. As a piece of advice we can tell you that you should feel comfortable and confident in your swimwear, regardless of the season and that's something we can help you with! Our carefully chosen materials and precise design ensure that you can focus on the thrill of the plunging into the water, knowing that your swimwear supports you in every dip.
Boosting well-being and mindfulness
Ice swimming is known for its numerous health benefits, both physical and mental. Plunging into icy waters can stimulate circulation, boost the immune system, and promote a sense of rejuvenation.
Regular ice swimming has been linked to a strengthened immune system. The exposure to cold water is believed to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which play a crucial role in defending your body against infections and diseases. Over time, this can help make your immune system stronger.
The shock of cold water triggers a release of endorphins, often referred to as feel-good hormones. These natural mood elevators promote relaxation and help reduce stress and anxiety. Ice swimming can simply be an effective way to clear your mind after a busy day.
Ice swimming also pushes your mental boundaries. The anticipation, the initial shock, and the challenging conditions require focus and determination. And the feeling you get after you challenged yourself is something that you have to experience yourself!
Play it safe!
While ice swimming offers numerous health benefits, it's essential to take safety precautions:
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Start slowly: If you're new to ice swimming, begin with short dips and gradually extend your time in the water.
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Know your limits: Pay attention to your body. If you start shivering experience severe discomfort, don't push yourself, exit the water and wrap in something warm immediately.
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Swim with a friend: Always have someone accompany you for safety. And photos!
Join our community this winter
Discover the exhilaration of ice swimming, an extraordinary Finnish tradition that invites us to reconnect with nature and explore our boundaries. With our sustainable Finnish swimwear, you can embark on this icy adventure with confidence, knowing that you are wearing swimwear that aligns with your eco-conscious values. Embrace the chill and join our community this winter—one dip at a time.
Follow our community on Instagram @liljathelabel and see where the others are challenging themselves this winter - whether you're located here in the North or on warmer latitudes, you can join us and challenge yourself by extending your swimming season, one day at a time.. Or a week, or a month? And soon you'll be enjoying your local coastline year-round.
