Feeling the cold water, getting the blood to flow to your internal organs, your skin breaking out in goosebumps whilst your mouth gasps for air. Winter swimming has never been more popular. And we can well understand why. Winter swimming is good for you, your wellbeing and your body – and although the cold water doesn’t always seem inviting, you can reap many benefits from a quick dip in the icy water. But do you need that final nudge? Here are some tips and tricks to help you get off to a good start with winter swimming.

 

Is winter swimming healthy?

 

When you jump into the cold sea, your body gets an endorphin rush because it cools down so suddenly. Your blood vessels constrict, triggering a cocktail of endorphins and adrenaline in your blood – just like going for a run. Winter swimming is good for your mental and emotional wellbeing, and gives you an inner sense of happiness, calm and well-being.

Numerous studies show that winter swimming is alsogood for your physical health. If you suffer from pain or discomfort in your body, winter swimming can help you reduce these symptoms in the long term. Winter swimming also helps improve your circulation, boosts your immune system and is thought to help increase your calorie burn and metabolism, as it takes a great deal of energy to keep your body warm when it is exposed to a cold dip in the sea.

     

How to get started with winter swimming

 

 

Broadly speaking, winter swimming is a matter of getting used to it. That’s why it’s a good idea to start as early in the season as possible, so that your body can gradually acclimatise to the cold – but it’s never too late to get started. It’s important to remember that winter swimming should be enjoyable and make you happy. The desire must come naturally and drive you from within. Winter swimming isn’t really about how long you stay underwater. The first few times you try winter swimming, it’s recommended that you stay underwater for a maximum of 5–10 seconds. Over time, as you gain more experience, you can stay in the water for 20–40 seconds. As a beginner, keep your head above water, as the blood vessels in your head do not react in the same way as those in the rest of your body. You may therefore cool down too quickly, which can increase the risk of fainting. Why not team up with a friend and start an energising routine together on the jetty?

   

Mastering cold water temperatures

To master

winter swimming, it’s all about making it a habit. It’s recommended that you go winter swimming about 2–3 times a week to establish a routine and to get your body used to the cold water temperatures. The more your body gets used to it, the easier it will be for you to enjoy it, even when it’s cold. Feel free to speed up the process at home by finishing your showers with as cold water as you can manage. It’s also beneficial to practise taking deep, slow breaths whilst in the water.

 

   

 

Warming up after your winter swim

As part of your winter swimming routine, what you wear is also a key factor when taking a dip in the cold water. It’s important to have a soft, cosy and warm bathrobe or jumpsuit to wrap up in after the cold plunge. A warm hat is also recommended, even whilst you’re bathing.

Stay warm with either our bathrobe, jumpsuit or socks, which offer you extra luxury and comfort with the finest quality of light, soft and warm fleece.

    

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If you’re one of the lucky ones who can enjoy a sauna after your winter swim, we recommend massaging your body with warming oil products for both face and body. Feel the tingling sensation beneath your skin as blood flows through your body and your skin comes to life.

If you don’t have access to a sauna, warm yourself from the inside by filling a thermos flask with hot tea to get (and keep) warm after a dip in the sea. Trythe award-winningCocoon Tea Artisans, made with the finest whole leaves from the original organic tea plant.

    

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So, if you were looking for a sign to get started with winter swimming, take this as your cue. Do it for yourself! For the camaraderie, for your wellbeing, for the joy of your body, for the endorphin rush and for your immune system. Now you’re well prepared – the next thing to do is to get undressed…

See you in the blue waves!

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Tips and tricks for your winter swimming

• Walk down into the water or lower yourself slowly with gentle movements.
• If you’re coming straight from the sauna, let your body cool down a little before you get into the cold water.
• It’s a good idea to wear a hat so that your body retains its heat.
• It’s a good idea to practise taking deep, slow breaths. Try the world-famous Wim Hof method.
• Stick to very short dips to begin with – you can gradually increase the time you spend in the water. 
• Have warm, comfortable clothes ready for after your swim, and perhaps something warm to drink. 
• Never swim alone; BOOST the experience by taking a dip with a friend.
• Do not swim if you have any concerns about your health or are feeling unwell.
• Use CALM balm as a protective cold cream on your face before, after and whilst you’re swimming, to avoid frostbite.