COMMUNITY NEWS 8th Annual New Year's Day Polar Dip draws enthusiastic participants to Bean Park in Paris

Bernie Martin shares his experience and highlights the health benefits of cold plunging

By Chris Whelan

The picturesque town of Paris, Ontario welcomed the arrival of 2024 with the 8th annual New Year's Day Polar Dip held at Bean Park along the majestic Grand River. Brave participants from near and far gathered to take part in this invigorating tradition, defying the icy waters in the hopes of starting the year on a refreshing note.

Among the dedicated participants was Bernie Martin, a local resident who has been sporadically taking part in the Polar Dip for nearly a decade When asked about his experience, Martin shared, "been doing this on and off for probably 8 years It's something I like to do to start the year off, well I don't really like it, but you feel great after It's more of a mental challenge than a physical one."

For many, the Polar Dip is not merely an act of physical endurance, but a symbolic ritual of mental fortitude. The bone-chilling waters serve as a metaphorical plunge into the new year, leaving behind the burdens of the past and embracing the possibilities of the future

Bernie Martin also took the opportunity to highlight the numerous health benefits associated with cold plunging. He enthusiastically recommended UpYoga Wellness, a recently opened wellness center in Paris, which features a sauna and cold plunge tub "It's a great way to get introduced to cold plunging," Martin remarked. Cold plunges are known to stimulate circulation, boost the immune system, and promote mental clarity, among other advantages

The New Year's Day Polar Dip has become a beloved tradition in Paris, attracting both locals and visitors who seek a unique and memorable way to kick-start the year.

The event not only serves as a thrilling adventure, but also fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among part

As the sun rose over Bean Park, echoing laughter and cheers filled the air as each dipper emerged from the frigid waters, their spirits lifted and hearts full of

Bernie Martin, a local resident who has been sporadically taking part in the Polar Dip for nearly a decade, said “I like to do to start the year off, well I don't really like it, but you feel great after. It's more of a mental challenge than a physical one.“

– Submitted photo optimism for the year ahead. The 8th annual New Year's Day Polar Dip in Paris, Ontario once again proved to be a daring and exhilarating start to the new year, leaving participants energized and ready to tackle whatever challenges may come their way.