I am surrounded by many inspiring women. They come from all walks of life, have different stories to tell and have overcome many obstacles. Every day in the salon, I am inspired by their stories and the snippets of their life they share with me.
Joanna has been a dear friend and client for decades. As fellow business owners, we have often shared problems and navigated challenging times together. Over the past year, I have followed her journey into cold water swimming. Here she tells her story ….
The cold-water miracle that has transformed my life.
Four years ago, my life changed dramatically, literally overnight. Having previously been an energetic, accomplished and driven Commercial Director, my health changed beyond recognition.
I was plagued by raging hot sweats, crippling insomnia, unexplained anxiety, brain fog and joint pain. I gained 10 pounds in a matter of months and experienced an enormous slump in my energy levels. HRT was a game changer for me, helping to take the edge off my symptoms. However, my body was still struggling to adjust to the ongoing hormone imbalance.
Discovering sea swimming…
Here’s where I discovered cold water therapy. I have loved and lived by the ocean for years. Having settled on Hayling Island, I have been blessed with beautiful seascapes for nearly all my life. In times of stress, I would often take myself off to the beach, breathing in the sea air and taking in the coastal views.
After a busy day at the office, grabbing my swim gear and walking over the road was a welcome relief. Striding into the surf, immersing myself in the cool and refreshing water. No one could get to me, I was living in the moment. The benefits were immediate and I instantly felt better.
And so began our Mermaid adventure
What started out as 3, soon became 9. Three friends who were keen to swim through the cold, winter months. As we shared our experience on social media, our group grew and Hayling Mermaids was born. Regular meetups followed, coffees on the beach and supportive chats. Friends meeting regularly to champion and encourage each other. This shared connection helped to improve our wellbeing and happiness.
The Science behind Cold Water Therapy
Studies have shown that cold water Immersion delivers real physical and mental health benefits. Helping to overcome joint pain as well as anxiety and depression. So, what’s the science behind these clinical findings? Swimming in cold water releases adrenaline and endorphins, creating a sense of euphoria.
Stepping out in nature, spending time in the company of others reduces stress and releases a feel-good effect. Like many GP Practices throughout the UK, our local GPs are offering cold water swimming courses as part of their strategy to improve patient wellbeing.
How to get started?
Cold water swimming is sweeping across the UK as a transformational way to revolutionise our health. Interested in giving it a go? There are many open water organisations online offering venues and coaching. Also, check out your local Primary Care Network to see if you can join an NHS-sponsored course.
Sea swimming has massively improved the quality of my life. An opportunity to connect to nature, spend quality time with my friends and improve my physical and mental wellbeing.