‘Just Keep Swimming’ – A Fabulous View on the Benefits of Cold Water Dipping – Wild Swimming Scotland

I reached out to the pals I swim with as the magic of water resonates with so many people and asked if they would share their wild swim stories.

 

Claire who has become an amazing champion in the water who calmly supports and encourages  responded with this beautifully written view

on the positive impact swimming has on her wellbeing.. So thought I would share and hopefully will encourage more people to

move from behind the covers and come and explore the joy of the water.

 

After years of loving being in the water as a child, and as a parent… I found myself drawn closer and closer to the water,

but with a caution of safety top priority, being on my own swimming in the river or loch, not knowing all the precautions of

breathing, how deep, where, what, and when etc.. oh and then anxiety, pain, the excuses were endless. I kept putting it off.

I was scrolling on Facebook and up popped a wild swimming group (yes the amount of time I’ve googled and searched for

wild swimming, it was appearing in my news feeds often) I recognised the name of the woman who runs it.

That feeling of ‘right I know her, maybe she can help me’ and in that moment I was extremely nervous, but I messaged her

anyway.

 

So friendly, confident, and reassuring, it was a no brainer. There were introduction solos, groups, days, outings, and most

important Lynda’s support and knowledge. I decided that’s it, I’m doing this and safely too. I was so nervous, not just the

water, but putting myself out there meeting new people, a world I’m dipping my toes into for the first time…. I was scared!!!!

Am I really doing this? YES I AM!!!!!! And for me, no one else, but me. Well actually the way it has helped me, it has benefited

others too because I am more ME. I talk more positively about life, more grounded, I’m not so

closed in on myself.

 

I’m more confident around people. I’ve made friends with people I would never have met of all ages, nationalities, walks

of life and class, like minded people who just want to experience the same as me with no judgement.

Freedom of the mind and ease in the water stroke after stroke or dook after dook. The ripples in the water, the animals on

land, water and air. Basically being in the moment, being submerged in the water with the amazing scenery, and being

grateful to be there. Even in cold water you can become more relaxed, with natural dopamine hitting you, you feel alive!

 

Pain in the water… What is that? It’s eased, I can move more freely, this is unreal. It’s natural physio for the brain and body.

I feel so drained doing my physio at home and suffer for it daily, but in the water I’m getting so much more from the exercise,

movements, and motivation from others than I ever could in my four walls at home.

 

People call us crazy, some intrigued, and some turn up the next week, wanting to embrace it themselves. With the watchful eye

and social support Lynda will help make that happen, one breath and toe dip at a time.

As for me, a year on. This is ME. Part of the cold water/ wild swimming community who support and look out for one another

in which I never dreamed of with all the health benefits (more than I can ever explain. Different for everyone).

 

I LOVE IT and I will have to

“Just keep swimming”

(quote: not my own words)

 

A quote that I use in all aspects of life X

I look forward to meeting you. Enjoy your own journey of wild swimming.

 

Claire