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The benefits of wild swimming for our physical and mental health

Wild Swimming - Jojo Fraser

I love being in the water and swim outdoors as often as possible.

Up until last month, I had never been wild swimming in Scotland in the Winter and this is something that I have always wanted to do.  Cold water immersion soothes muscle aches and boosts the immune system. In terms of our mental health, cold water swimming is meant to be a really useful for those who struggle with depression.  I have read up on this and spoken to some wild swimmers who understand the natural endorphin high that raises mood, elates the senses and creates an addictive urge to dive back in.  Now, that’s my kind of mojo injection.  I have been for two wild swims over the past 5 weeks.  The first one was in Elie.  I felt nervous because it was certainly out of my comfort zone.  I did the swim with Anna from Wild Swimming Photography.  Anna is a regular wild swimmer and I love her energy and passion for it.

Wild Swimming - Jojo Fraser Wild Swimming - Jojo Fraser Wild Swimming - Jojo Fraser

I loved the experience and adored being in the water, although a wet suit for my chest would have been nice as the temperature of the water gave me a bit of a shock once I fully immersed myself.  I found the burning sensation in my legs to be fairly soothing and it reminded me of how amazing our bodies are, trying to heat us up when we are in extremely cold conditions.  We spotted a dolphin and it was such a wonderful, peaceful swim.  We then enjoyed some hot chocolate on the beach.  Anna was a great sport and she looked after me extremely well, ensuring she educated me on how to take on wild swimming sensibly and safely.

 

Wild Swimming - Jojo Fraser

The 2nd swim was at Wardie Bay on International Women’s Day.  I was thrilled to have picked up an Inspirational Women Award the night before, so setting the alarm clock for 5.45am and diving in the sea for a sunrise swim with a group of like minded women was the perfect way to celebrate.

Jojo Fraser - Inspirational Women

 

The Wild Swim was arranged by Danni Gordon of the Chachi Power Project, Anna and Vicki from Wild Swimming Photography.  The morning was all about empowering women and celebrating our bodies, which are all unique and amazing.  I loved the vibes and the buzz of the day and just like after Elie, I felt exhilarated yet again and super fresh.  I felt proud too as the water doesn’t get much colder than that.

Jojo Fraser - wild swimming in Scotland

I caught up with Anna to find out more about her passion for wild swimming, one thing’s for sure – I am keen to go back for a 3rd time in the not so distant future.

 

How long have you been wild swimming for?
I have always enjoyed swimming outdoors, but have swum throughout the year regularly for the last 2 years or so.
What do you love about wild swimming?
I love the sense of freedom, of being utterly in the moment, being immersed in nature and that every single swim is different.
What are the main benefits of wild swimming?
Swimming in cold water has been proven to help with depression as you release amazing endorphins when you swim, it is a brilliant stress buster. Plus it is anti inflammatory, so many people find it helps with chronic pain and discomfort. Being outdoors in nature is always good for your stress levels and for your mental health too.
Any top tips for people who want to try it?
It’s probably sensible to start around May when the water temperature is a little higher. Never swim alone and do your research and check where you are swimming, know your water before going in.  Join a swim group for advice on your local area and swim buddies.
Wear layers, loads of them, and warm up from the inside out, hot drinks after swimming are essential. You will want more warm layers after than you ever thought you needed! Be careful to listen to your body very carefully, it is very easy to get too cold.
Fave place to go wild swimming and why?
That is a tough one, I love the sea but rivers and lochs also hold such an appeal. I think if I had to choose, perhaps I would choose Gullane in East Lothian, such a beautiful beach and such beautiful surroundings.
Thanks Anna – I love Gullane and am keen to head there for a wild swim soon.  Shall I invest in a wet suit first though? that is the question.  Next stop for me. A wee trip to Dubai.  I shall most certainly be swimming.
Let me know if you give it a shot and how you feel.  I love a selfie update too so keep them coming my way.

 

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