Beat the January blues with Open Water Swimming
January can be a very long and difficult month for many people. The festive season is over, we have over spent, over indulged and the weather is cold and nights are dark. Motivation is lacking and the January Blues may set it. But there is a cure.
Open water swimming has proven benefits for our wellbeing and the buzz you get from being in the cold water is addictive and long lasting hours after you leave the water. The tranquility of the water, being surrounded by nature, the fresh air and scenery all work to make us feel better than we did before we entered the water. The “feel good” chemicals released in the brain during cold water immersion leaves you feeling happier and more relaxed, helping to wash away the January blues. And to top it off it is free!
Relieving Stress
Entering cold water forces us to focus on our breathing and to be in the present moment. Was we concentrate on breathing, the cold water has a way of emptying the mind of too many thoughts which for many is a great relief from their busy lives. Cold water swimming can boost resilience by reducing the body’s stress response to the cold, which then translates into better responses to daily stresses back in daily life.
Happiness In Water
“You never regret it once you're in” is never a truer phrase. You will never see an open water swimming group leaving their swim spot without a smile on their faces. Wild swimming releases happy hormones that help to reduce stress and anxiety, leaving us feeling good. What better way to beat the January blues. To add to the positivity is the social interactions we have with our fellow swimmers. Most cold water swimming is done in groups or venues with others in the water so you are engaging with other like minded water lovers who get the blues too. If you haven’t already found a swim group get in touch with us and we can point you in the direction of one near you.
Reducing Inflammation
After too many turkey dinners, and less time exercising over the holidays we may be feeling the flare up of pain and inflammation. Regular open water swimming can enhance the body’s anti-inflammatory response. This can lead to reducing the symptoms of inflammation.
Boost The Immune System
Wild swimming regularly could help keep the bugs away during the winter when colds, coughs, flu etc are rife. Cold water swimming triggers an increase in white blood cell production which boosts the health of your immune system. So next time the flu bugs try to attack, your cold water warrior immune system will fend them off!
Improved Circulation
When you immerse your body in cold water, your blood rushes to surround your vital organs. This stimulation encourages your heart to pump faster and your capillaries and veins to constrict, speeding up blood flow and circulation, and strengthening your circulatory system. Improved circulation also flushes toxins out of your system, giving you a healthier and glowing complexion. Salt water contains antibacterial properties, so if you take a dip in the sea, you may also notice your skin feeling softer when you leave the water. Have we convinced you to give it a go yet?
From better sleep, and improved metabolism, to community spirit and happier outlooks, there is no time like now to get in the water and feel the January Blues washing away. Bring some colour and brightness to your swims with our fun, funky and eye catching range of tow floats, dry bags, swim caps, neoprene gloves and boots as well as our new tote bags and changing robe.
In January we have a great offer on all our products. Buy any 2 items and you will have 20% taken off at the checkout. Why not start 2026 in style with new gear. Good luck to all our followers who are braving the cold January temperatures, we will see you in the water.