Outdoor Skills headed to Hellasgården in December to participate in the Swedish winter tradition of swimming in the icy waters of Källtorpsjön – also known as “vinterbad”.

Winter bathing is a practice believed to have health benefits, such as strengthening the immune system and boosting circulation. It is a unique experience and an exhilarating way to connect with nature.  

The students were told to prepare adequately with towels, a swimsuit, a hot drink, and a snack before heading to the frozen lake. One of the students who participated in the trip was Al-Alya I, who recently moved to Sweden and had never before lived in a cold country. 

“They said that it was zero degrees but I don’t think it was. I think it was colder,” said Al-Alya jokingly. 

The students were allowed to jump into the cold lake,  despite the frigid temperatures, and most dared to jump multiple times. The teachers, Mr. Hume and Ms. Celino, participated, too. 

The trip to Hellasgården allowed students to experience a part of Swedish culture, including a traditional Swedish sauna, and taught them to embrace the cold; despite the harsh weather, there are still opportunities that Sweden has to offer in winter. 

“I’ve never tried it before. You can still swim and you can still experience things in the wintertime…I really enjoyed it,” said Al-Alya.