People keep saying that swimming is so good for your mind, especially if it’s cold, and I thought, why not give it a go?
But on a sunny Saturday morning with all the dog walkers and families present- that would be taking it too far wouldn’t it?
I had to ignore my mind that told me to worry about what I look like in a swimsuit and flip flops, swimming in the woods.
I had to push away the intrusive and false thoughts that I should be embarrassed that I had a bright orange towel tossed over my shoulder and people were judging me for taking a plunge, because they weren’t. In fact, people did not care in the slightest.
Yes, people saw me in flip flops in the mud sliding towards the water, they saw me squeal as I jumped in and they saw me clumsily climb out, but I was met with only kindness.
People weren’t saying I looked ridiculous, they were saying “oh you’re brave” (I was) and “bloody hell, I bet that was cold” (it was) and the only feedback I was given was positive. I didn’t feel embarrassed or ashamed, I felt free… and cold to the bone.
Studies suggest that cold water immersion adapts the body to its stress response as it is kicked into ‘fight or flight’. It also has the ability to better the immune system as the shock kick starts the preparation for potential wounding or infection.
As a result of this, there is then a connection to reduce the chances of that person becoming depressed, because of their bodily ability to deal with the adrenaline and stress hormone released in short bursts during these moments of cold water submersion.
Confession: since this video… I’ve been and done it again!
