The Mielno municipality hosts an annual event for winter bathers in icy water. The event is called the International Walrus Rally in Mielno and has a long history, as the first rally was held in 2004. The event is organised by the Cultural Centre in Mielno. It is the largest event of its kind in Poland and one of the largest in the world.
The event itself lasted three days and participants agreed that the atmosphere was really hot - even though the air temperature was only 6°C and the sea temperature 5°C.
Tourists staying in Sarbinowo in autumn or winter can also encounter walruses taking baths in the icy sea.

Walruses what is , what health functions ?

Walrus swimming, or swimming in cold water, can have various physical and mental health benefits. Below are some of the potential benefits:

• Strengthening the immune system: Regular walruses can have a positive effect on the immune system, improving blood circulation and stimulating the immune system.
• Improving blood circulation: Cold water baths can help improve blood circulation, which can benefit the heart and circulatory system.
• Stress reduction: Immersion in cold water can have a relaxing effect and reduce stress levels.
• Cold water contact can also stimulate the nervous system, which can have a beneficial effect on the ability to cope with stress.
• Mood enhancement: Walrting can induce feelings of euphoria and improve mood. This phenomenon is often linked to the release of endorphins - chemicals produced by the body in response to stressful stimuli.
• Improving concentration and performance: Regular immersion in cold water can improve concentration and physical performance by stimulating the nervous system.
• Immune training: walrushing can be a kind of immune training for the body, teaching it to adapt to extreme conditions.
• Improved sleep quality: some people report improved sleep quality after regular cold water baths.

Walrus bathing in the sea for whom?

The walrus rally in Mielno is attended by tourists of all ages; you can meet children from 4 years old.
The most important thing before entering the sea is a proper warm-up. Preferably in the form of a 5-10 minute run, it is sufficient to stay in the water for 4-6 minutes , experienced walruses stay for up to 25 minutes. A longer time can cause the body to cool down to 35 degrees which can already have negative health effects.

Here are some categories of people who can enjoy walruses, provided certain precautions are observed:

• Healthy and active people: people in generally good health and fitness can benefit from walrting as a form of physical activity that has health and well-being benefits.
• Extreme experience seekers: People who are looking for a unique and extreme experience may be interested in walruses because of the intensity and challenge of bathing in cold water.
• Water sports enthusiasts: Those involved in water sports such as scuba diving and swimming can enjoy walruses as an enrichment to their water experience.
• Individuals looking to improve their mental health: Walrus bathing can benefit mental health by reducing stress, improving mood and increasing resilience to everyday challenges.

However, walrushing is not recommended for certain groups of people, including:

• People with heart problems: People with heart disease or other cardiovascular conditions should consult a doctor before attempting walruses.
• People with respiratory problems: People with asthma or other respiratory conditions should discuss with their doctor whether walruses are safe for them.
• People with diabetes: Patients with diabetes should consult their doctor as walruses can affect blood glucose levels.
• Pregnant people: Pregnant women should avoid walruses due to the potential risk to the foetus.

In any case, it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking up walruses to ensure that it is safe and suitable for the individual. It is also important to follow safety precautions, such as gradually getting the body used to the low water temperatures.

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