Of course, we have Vague d'Espoir, an event that takes place every year on January 1rst at Dune du Sud beach, a refreshing collective dive aimed to raise funds for the fight against cancer. Anyone who wants to try out cold water immersion will find the perfect opportunity here to combine one's own impulse with a group's determination to jump in the ocean on New Year's Day, no matter how freezing cold it might be. I did it myself a few times, driven by the appeal of a personal challenge and the wish to contribute to a good cause.
Then out of curiosity, I felt like learning more about the practice. Inspired by my brother Nicolas who, for a few years now, has been swimming during every season at Lac Témiscouata. In the winter, I know he goes out with his axe to preserve the hole he made in the ice and bathe under February's splendid sunshine. As we talked more and more about it, I became aware of all the benefits he was experiencing.
His visit to Les Îles early June of 2022 aligned perfectly with my desire to start cold water swimming on a regular basis. He was the best mentor I could hope for. I learned to breathe, listen, stay, leave and come back to icy waters (in June, the sea is still very cold in the Islands!), and my interest in continuing this habit quickly transformed into a mental, visceral need. In my case, it was a need to feel that sustainable well-being that northern swims can generate. When you do it often!
So the next fall, I kept up with my immersions into the big blue, mostly by myself. December came around, January too and it joined me in Dune du Sud, in water that already has the reputation for being cold and happens to be located right in front of my house. And it went on. I am now embracing all four seasons of the ocean here, as the ever-growing number of enthusiasts along the archipelago.
I knew, as others did, about the existence of Gros Cap's two admirable northern swimmers, of venerable age, whom we hear about as though they were both characters of some winter tale. Inspiring ladies with great strength and consistency, who are still doing cold water dips together today. In a very different manner, the La Grave group of lady swimmers, merry partners of the Havre whom I have joined on a few occasions, awaken all impulses! Further to the east, the nomad swimmers gather, my winter and township sisters with whom I share those moments of grace, from the Dune du Sud beach to that of the Vieux Couvent, and the very beautiful shores of L'Échouerie. We meet there - yes, mainly women! - depending on the day and weather, our chills, the boldness to just get in the water, and always, the delight that bursts from the heart and up to the surface, rocking the icy waters with the power of a moment lived "here and now", and the gems of light it contains. The best part about it all? The gratitude felt in this extremely invigorating coastal environment, endless source of joy, adventure and healing.
WARNING! Please note that it is highly recommended to speak to your doctor before jumping into northern swimming.
