On a crisp Saturday morning at 9:00 am, the Bebek quays in the Bobo-Chic district of Istanbul, on the European shore, were bustling with an unusual sight. Eren Tör, a retired dentist, was among the first to arrive with his musical speaker, ready to dive into the gray waters of the Bosphorus Strait. The scene was a testament to the resilience and joy that can be found in the most unexpected places.

We have been waiting for it for three years! he rejoiced, recalling the last real snowfall in March 2022.

Since Wednesday, the Turkish megalopolis has undergone abundant snow showers that have covered the eccentric suburbs and forced the closure of schools, before hanging on the city center to the roofs and the ground.

At 66, Eren, a retired dentist, comes here by all time and in any season, faithful of the Bosphorus in which he learned to swim as a child. He praises the unique luck to bathe between two continents in this strait that links the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea and separates Europe from Asia.

Inexhaustible on the benefits of cold water – It is 5 ° to 6 ° C inside, -2 ° C outside he advances-he lets go of some advice to impetrants: Do not stay more than five minutes, immersed to the neck and breathing as slowly as possible to keep control of your body.

Before his eyes, Asli Bardiz entered the bikini water, without hesitation or even shiver. Joined hands, closed eyes, she seemed to meditate under a ray of sunshine. He does better inside than outside she says, leaving, her feet reddened by the cold.

A 30-year-old designer who also bathes in all seasons, ASLI followed a winter camp last year in the Kartepe mountains, ski resort east of Istanbul, where she trained to walk in the bikini in the snow.

It’s excellent for physical and mental health she praises, swearing that he just focus on the moment to forget the cold.

None of the bathers who start to flock to bears a diving combination and all open round eyes when it is suggested.

Aydin Aydiner, 45, the hat screwed to the eyes, rakes the snow to open a passage to the scale while waiting for his group of friends. The day before, this 45-year-old textile entrepreneur came despite the storm, he says, exhibiting the video of his swimming under the flakes that fall into Drues games, between two bursts of light, for three days.

The more cold it is, the better it is: you feel rejuvenated! He throws, throwing himself into the water in orange shorts, disdaining the steps and some jellyfish floating on the surface.

It’s collagen, it’s good for the skin! Patus Eren laughing, brandishing the gelatinous mass with full hands.

Nothing, really nothing that hinders the irreducible of winter swimming.

The Science Behind Cold Water Swimming

Cold water swimming has gained popularity in recent years, not just in Turkey but also in the United States. In places like Minnesota, where the tradition of ice swimming is well-established, enthusiasts brave the frigid waters of Lake Superior and other bodies of water. The practice is not just about thrill-seeking; it has been linked to numerous health benefits.

Studies have shown that cold water immersion can boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and even improve mental health. The shock of cold water can trigger the release of endorphins, which act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. Additionally, the body’s response to cold can increase metabolism and improve circulation, leading to a variety of health benefits.

However, it’s important to note that cold water swimming is not without risks. Hypothermia, frostbite, and drowning are all potential dangers. Experts advise that anyone considering cold water swimming should start gradually, wear appropriate gear, and always swim with a partner. For those in the U.S., organizations like the International Ice Swimming Association provide guidelines and safety tips for cold water enthusiasts.

In the case of Eren Tör and his fellow swimmers in Istanbul, their dedication to the practice is a testament to the unique cultural and environmental factors that drive such activities. The Bosphorus Strait, with its historical significance and natural beauty, serves as a backdrop for these brave individuals who seek both physical and mental rejuvenation.

As cold water swimming continues to gain traction, both in Turkey and around the world, it’s clear that the practice offers more than just a thrill. For those willing to brave the chill, the rewards can be substantial, both physically and mentally. Whether it’s in the icy waters of Lake Superior or the historic Bosphorus Strait, the allure of cold water swimming is undeniable.