Why do I freedive in cold waters / under ice

Pretty often I am asked why I go freediving in freezing cold water and under ice in winter.

Well, basically I don't like cold water at all. To be honest, I do not like the cold season/winter.

But "why do you do this to yourself?"

This is a legitimate question and I have asked it myself. There would certainly be reasons not to do it: To go into the freezing cold water, to dive down and feel the cold all over your body. The cold afterwards, when you come out of the water and have to change outside. The time of warming up until you feel warmth in your body again.

So, Why do I do this to myself?

Firstly, I don't want to miss diving during the cold season. Being in the water gives me a feeling of freedom, I can recharge my batteries, block out the thoughts in my head for a while and be free.

On the other hand it is curiosity and fascination. Often the visibility is better in the winter months.

Freediving under ice brings not only the cold, but also other mental challenges. The feeling of being under a thick layer of ice can cause fear and panic. But it can also trigger a feeling of lightness and light-heartedness. The latter applies to me. It is exciting to see how you react to such challlenges.