Bikini-clad Russian women plunge themselves into ice cold water as part of purification ritual

Epiphany is a Russian holiday where people purify themselves by taking a plunge into ice-cold water. 

The low temperatures might deter some potential participants, but some strong-willed women have made the bold decision to brave the cold in their bikinis.

Acid Cow has compiled a series of photos showing several individuals who laughed in the face of hypothermia as they celebrated Epiphany.

Have a look at them in the gallery above.