Epiphany bathing took place in Vladivostok, Perm, Krasnoyarsk and Ufa.

Residents of Vladivostok, Perm, Krasnoyarsk and Ufa took part in traditional Epiphany bathing. On the night of Sunday, January 18, to Monday, January 19, all those who plunged into specially equipped baptismal fonts shared their positive emotions with Izvestia and told about the life—affirming attitude they had found.

Stanislav, who lives in Vladivostok and has been diving since 2013, said that he gets enough energy for a whole year ahead. He also shared with Izvestia that such events give a person a good mood. Another resident of Vladivostok, Oksana, who has been participating in Epiphany bathing for 15 years, added that coming out of the icy water, you can feel an inner rebirth.

Charlie, who has been living in Russia for the second year, also came to the ice holes, said that the secret to successfully observing this important tradition lies in relaxation, which allows you to feel warm even while staying in the font.

"The more you shrink, the colder it gets. The holiday itself is of great importance to many people. And I am in support (I support him. That's all. <...> This is a very important and cool wellness moment, because after the New Year holidays, we need to clean up somehow," he said in a conversation with Izvestia.

Evgeny, a Ufa resident who spoke with the publication, also recalled that water becomes holy on this Orthodox holiday. According to the man, she significantly supports a healthy mind.

"It's a sacred holiday and it's a tradition. At every baptism, I try to be present in the baptismal font, to bathe.<...> It's worth it — then it feels very pleasant, it gets very warm, the body feels hot, and it's so indescribable that you need to experience it," shared Daria, a resident of Ufa.

Epiphany water and its wonders: the truth and legends of the Orthodox tradition

Why is epiphany water considered sacred and how does the church recommend treating it?

On January 19, Izvestia published footage of Epiphany bathing in the Republic of Dagestan. Correspondent Daniyal Isaev said that the whole Caspian Sea was illuminated to carry out the tradition.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.