How To Reset Your Mind & Body With Open Water Swimming

Wild swimming, or open water swimming, has gained popularity as a refreshing and invigorating activity that not only benefits your physical health but also has a positive impact on your mental well-being. 

We’d like to think that everyone who’s visited our Surrey open water swimming lake knows that there’s something that feels truly magical about immersing yourself in the natural world and connecting with the elements through a wild swim. The combination of fresh air, cool water and the beauty of the surroundings creates a real sense of tranquillity and freedom that can do absolute wonders for your mental health. 

Why is wild swimming good for your mental health?

One of the main reasons why wild swimming is good for your mental health is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. As you dip into the open water, you leave behind the demands and pressures of everyday life. The rhythmic motion of swimming and the sensation of weightlessness can help to calm your mind and release tension from your body. The peacefulness of nature combined with the gentle sounds of water can provide a much-needed respite from the chaos of modern life.

Wild swimming is also a great way to boost your mood and enhance your overall mental well-being. When you swim outdoors, your body releases endorphins, which are natural chemicals that promote feelings of happiness and euphoria. The exposure to sunlight during outdoor swimming also stimulates the production of Vitamin D, which has been linked to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression.

In addition to its mood-enhancing benefits, wild swimming encourages mindfulness and self-reflection. As you float in the open water, you become more aware of your surroundings and in tune with your own thoughts and emotions. This meditative state allows you to let go of worries and negative thoughts, promoting a sense of mental clarity and inner peace. The connection with nature can also help to foster a sense of awe and gratitude, leading to an increased appreciation for the beauty and wonder of the world around you.

Does swimming clear your mind?

If you’re looking for a natural way to clear your mind, then swimming is the way to go! Whether you're taking a dip in a calm pool or venturing into our Surrey lake for some wild swimming, being in water can truly clear your mind.

There's something about swimming that allows us to escape from our stresses. As we glide through the water, our bodies become weightless, and our minds follow suit. The movements of swimming can be incredibly meditative, allowing us to focus solely on the sensation of the water against our skin and the sound of our breath.

Opting for open water swimming over pool swimming takes this experience to a whole new level. The beauty of nature surrounds us as we plunge into lakes, rivers, or even the sea. The cold water shocks our senses and wakes us up, forcing us to be fully present in the moment. As we swim through these natural environments, our minds are freed from the constant stream of thoughts that they’re usually so busy with.

Does swimming clear brain fog?

With a clearer mind, typically comes less brain fog. Brain fog is a term used to describe a state of mental confusion and lack of clarity. It can make you feel forgetful, disoriented, and unable to concentrate or think clearly. Imagine trying to navigate through a dense fog where everything feels hazy and murky - that’s how brain fog feels. 

Brain fog can be a frustrating experience for anyone who experiences it. Whilst it can affect people of all ages, it’s most commonly reported by those who are dealing with chronic health conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and autoimmune disorders. Additionally, hormonal changes, stress, lack of sleep, and poor diet can also contribute to this cognitive cloudiness.

But does wild swimming clear brain fog, and how does it do it? The secret lies in the cold water immersion. When we plunge into the icy waters, our bodies experience a shock that triggers a rush of endorphins and adrenaline. These natural chemicals help to stimulate our brain and improve mental clarity, leaving us feeling refreshed and revitalised. 

How does wild swimming affect you mentally?

Open water swimming, also known as wild swimming, can have a profound impact on our mental well-being. 

The experience of immersing ourselves in the natural environment, surrounded by the beauty of various flora and fauna, is incredibly calming. The sensation of the cool water against our skin, combined with the gentle exercise brings us into the moment.

This mindfulness, combined with the release of endorphins during exercise, can boost our mood and reduce stress and anxiety. The freedom and sense of adventure that comes with open water swimming can also provide a much-needed escape from the pressures of daily life, allowing us to reconnect with nature and ourselves. 

What are the benefits of cold water and sauna?

Saunas and cold water have been used for centuries as a means to improve health and well-being. The combination of the two, known as a wild sauna experience, can offer a range of benefits for both the body and mind.

One of the main advantages of a wild sauna is its ability to enhance circulation. When you expose your body to the extreme temperatures of the sauna and then plunge into cold water, your blood vessels undergo a process called vasodilation and vasoconstriction. This process helps to improve blood flow, which in turn can promote better oxygenation of tissues and organs. Improved circulation can also aid in the removal of toxins from the body, helping to boost overall detoxification.

Another benefit of the wild sauna experience is its impact on the immune system. The sudden changes in temperature stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting off infections and diseases. By regularly subjecting yourself to this contrast therapy, you can strengthen your immune system and reduce the risk of falling ill.

In addition to physical benefits, the combination of sauna and cold water can also have positive effects on mental health. The intense heat of the sauna can promote relaxation and relieve stress, which combines well with the cold water shock’s endorphin release and mood boosting effects. Many people find that the wild sauna experience helps them feel rejuvenated and refreshed, both physically and mentally.

Open water swimming and wild sauna in Surrey

Are you looking for a place to try open water swimming and a wild sauna just outside of London? Around an hour away from central London, our Divers Cove is the ideal location for those keen to swim and unwind in the stunning natural setting of Godstone, Surrey.