December 27, 2024
In Sables d'Olonne (Vendée), the tradition is more than a century old! This year, on January 1st, the Bain des Givrés should bring together more than… 2,000 participants on the main beach. Here as elsewhere, there is room for good humor, but not without some common sense precautions.
The town of Les Sables d'Olonne has decided to start the year 2025 with a world record! That of bringing together as many people as possible in… sailor tops on a beach! “ Target: 2,101 », smiles Loïc Potier, city agent responsible for the beach sector, “ on the occasion of the New Year's bath “. Le Bain des Givrés as it is called in this Vendée seaside resort. Everyone is therefore expected to arrive in a sailor's shirt before jumping into the water.
Warm-up
Jump in? Well, not quite… The temperature of the ocean is expected to fluctuate depending on the weather of the day, between 8°C and 12°C… This is why, in general, it is recommended to warm up your water a little. organism, beforehand: a few jumps on the spot, shoulder movements, flexions. Also tap your arms and legs to speed up blood flow. In the Sands, “ for the festive aspect, we organize a warm-up of 15 to 20 minutes, in the form of a dance », underlines Loïc Potier. However, before warning the “frosty” people, wait a few minutes before going into the water, so that the body temperature drops a little. And thus avoid thermal shock.
Feeling there…
Once near the water, start gradually, after wetting your neck, carotid artery and stomach. In other words, the so-called reflexogenic zones. “ Generally speaking, very few people swim above the waist », he notes, with years of experience. “ A large majority also stays in the water for a few seconds. On the other hand, those accustomed to this type of winter bath benefit more ».
Good for the head
And for good reason, the benefits of this activity are not lacking: “ for the skin, blood circulation, bronchi », lists Loïc Potier. But he especially emphasizes the mental aspect: “ it's a beautiful symbol to start the year in the great outdoors with this kind of challenge, with friends or family, all generations combined. It really makes you smile “. Something to keep stress away too.
Warm!
One last point: when you get out of the water, dry yourself carefully and cover yourself without delay. With a sailor top or something else, before extending the moment with hot chocolate, tea, coffee or even a glass of mulled wine! And if you have the slightest doubt, based in particular on medical history (cardiovascular, etc.), seek the advice of your attending physician.
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Source : Interview Loïc Potier, December 23, 2024
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Written by: David Picot – Edited by Emmanuel Ducreuzet
