On New Year’s Day, I undertook my first ever cold-water swim at Branksome Chine beach in Dorset. It’s taken me a while to process why I committed to this but I’m eternally glad I did as it was one of the most exhilarating challenges I have experienced.
It took place on a clear but very chilly morning (5 C°). I expected to see a mixed demographic of participants but on arrival, it was clear that more women were up for this than men, most over the age of 40 and sporting the ubiquitous dry robe. Did I really want to belong to this stereotype?
Furthermore, I avoid any kind of challenge in temperatures less than 10 c° – I have Raynaud’s Syndrome which numbs my hands even in mild climates. I was sceptical about how a cold-water swim could help with hormonal management, improve circulation, increase endurance, or make me less anxious. The only reason I was there was because a few good friends (female) asked me to join and I thought it would be fun.
After a 20-minute run, to activate the circulation, we entered the water gradually but without hesitation, the four of us together in solidarity. Our largely male support crew watched from the shore holding towels and hot chocolates tasked with capturing the perfect Instagram shot.
“1, 2, 3” and we’re in!
We managed several strokes amidst exclamations of joy, bewilderment, and surprise. Then, as soon as we came out, we went in again!
After our dip, I felt rejuvenated in a physical sense, like I’d woken gently from a 10-year sleep, refreshed and glowing from head to toe. This lasted hours but as it faded a sense of empowerment filled my veins – I was ready to tackle any challenge head on.
Why on earth do a cold-water swim?
In the media, cold-water swimming has been associated with menopausal women as a way of managing hormonal fluctuations. According to research done by UCL (University College London) regular cold-water swimming can ease menopause symptoms like hot flushes, anxiety, and mood swings.
However, its benefits stretch far beyond managing female hormones, so here’s my cold-water top ten behind taking a plunge…
- It could put you on top of the world. The shock of cold-water triggers endorphins, creating sense of euphoria and well-being
- It increases your alertness and energy. The ‘fight or flight’ response induced by cold water raises the heart rate and blood pressure making you feel energised
- It can improve your sleep; the body’s temperature drop after a swim contributes to better sleep patterns
- It’s chemical free (no chlorine) the perfect way to immerse yourself in nature and connect with your environment
- It increases your metabolism – the body must work harder to maintain its core temperature, increasing the metabolic rate and burning calories
- Plunging into cold water activates oxytocin, the hormone responsible for social connection and trust. Cold-water plunging with your friends helps strengthen bonds
- It’s free. Bring a flask of hot chocolate to avoid long queues for warm beverages at the beach
- It can make you feel physically stronger. Don’t forget, cold water immersion is used by athletes to speed up recovery after exercise
- It improves endurance – it increases tolerance to the cold and prolonged exertion
- It may help give your immune system a boost (studies have indicated that cold water swimmers reported fewer sick days)
So, after a couple of days of reflection, I’ve finally put my finger on why I did it. It’s because I thrive on positive, shared challenges with people I trust. Collectively dipping into body-numbing water strengthens bonds and grows relationships. I am so thankful to the people who made it the perfect New Year’s Day.
A word of warning
While beneficial, cold-water swimming carries risks such as cold shock and hypothermia. Always follow safety guidelines and check with your GP before starting especially if you have a heart condition. For more information about how to stay safe, visit the Royal Life Saving Society website.
Winter Water Safety | Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK)
For those with Raynaud’s visit the Raynaud’s Association website for some tips about cold water swimming.
For more information about cold-water swimming and mental health, visit MIND
How sea swimming boosts my mental health | Mind
