WATCH: Peak District bikini-wearing farmer step into unique outdoor ice bath on snowy field

Joanna Shimwell has posted a video of her in a bikini in a snow blanketed field where she breaks ice before stepping into freezing cold water.

Released two days ago on social media, the footage has racked up 6,850 likes including one from TV star and fellow Peak District farmer Kelvin Fletcher.

Joanna, who manages Dale Farm at Great Longstone, said: “I started doing cold exposure about seven years ago, for the mental health benefits. I have suffered with depression and find exercise/keeping fit and spending time in the outdoors were factors which helped me - cold water was another thing to try and it’s been of benefit to me.

“It feels scary to think about taking off warm clothes and getting into a freezing cold bath of water and ice but I genuinely enjoy the challenge and overcoming my self doubt is a good feeling. It’s helped me build confidence.

“Sometimes the baths are used for drinking water for our cows but currently they aren’t in use so I thought why not make use of them as I don’t have a dedicated ice bath for my own use.

"It feels amazing afterwards - you get a dopamine hit and generally feel really good.

"Obviously cold exposure can carry risks of shock etc but as I am experienced in this practice I don’t think it’s unsafe for me. I know how to prepare correctly and I know the risks.”

Joanna, 38, is no stranger to taking a dip in sub-zero temperatures. As a keen wild swimmer, she has plunged into freezing water in the Lake District after using a hammer to break the ice.

While cold water therapy relieves pain, reduces muscle soreness and boosts mood but warnings have been given about the risks which can include organ failure, skin rash and nerve damage.