Definition of plunge pool

The term "plunge pool" originated from the Scandinavian and Nordic traditions of cold water therapy, known as "kaltvódstraining" or "polarbear swimming." During these activities, people would plunge into icy waters to improve their health and offer a mental boost. These cold water baths often resulted in forming small yet deep pools around the base of waterfalls or at the bottom of steep cliffs. Due to the rapidly flowing water running over the rocks and carving out sediment, these natural rock basins would fill with water and become still pools. The name "plunge pool" originated from Scandinavian fishermen who would swim in these rock pools to catch fish, and in turn, the English adopted this term while moving and settling in New Zealand and parts of Australia. Over time, people have recognized the beauty of these natural features alongside their history. Many conservation efforts are now geared towards preserving and safeguarding these plunge pools, considering them to be rare and valuable landscapes.