A group of Russian Orthodox believers bathes in the icy water of a pond during the celebrations of the Orthodox Epiphany in Moscow, Russia. Participants believe that immersing themselves in holy waters during the Epiphany celebration strengthens their spirit and body.

However local emergency services in some regions cancelled events, saying it was too hazardous for worshippers to cut bathing holes in icy ponds and rivers

Dozens of people in Moscow take a dip in freezing water to mark Epiphany, a major holiday in Orthodox Christianity. The ritual marks the baptism of Jesus Christ and is said to cleanse the participant of sin.