Go Jump In A Lake.
I’m not telling you to Go Jump In A Lake because I’m mad at you; I’m telling you because of the positive impact it will have on your physical and mental health!
I was lucky as a kid to be exposed to swimming. My Mother ensured that we took swimming lessons at a neighbour’s pool in the winter, and in the summer, we visited a swimming hole called Dick’s Dam. In my teens, I continued to participate in lessons at our small town’s pool and, with her encouragement, became quite obsessed with doing my lengths until I had the strength to obtain my bronze medallion. Swimming helped me during my pregnancy, especially during the last trimester, and has been something I have turned to regularly for my mental well-being.
My Mother introduced me to so many things that are important to me; yoga, meditation, dancing, gardening, and swimming, I have yet to take up belly dancing, but one never knows what the future holds.
She was an incredible swimmer and could spend hours doing lengths of the breaststroke. Her swimming endurance helped her win a trip to the Bahamas with her friend Joan, and she laughed uproariously when we called her Bahama Mama.
Like her, I enjoy doing lengths in an indoor or outdoor pool, but I feel claustrophobic in an indoor pool, and I’m not a big fan of chlorine. My favourite place to swim is in a large lake or the ocean. There is something so Zen and soothing about a good lake swim. I love the sensation of the sand and small pebbles on my feet, the cool water hugging my body, fresh air filling my lungs, and the sunset gently touching my skin. I also feel a deep calm when I stare off into the vista, feeling space, expansion and gratitude.
Living in Prince Edward County, we are blessed to be a short drive to the Sandbanks Provincial Park, one of the most beautiful provincial parks I’ve ever been to, second to Algonquin Park. It has three incredible beaches-Dunes Beach, Outlet Beach and Lakeshore Beach. After a few attempts at visiting the beach during the day this summer and struggling with the crowds and one too many dog dynamics, we’ve decided to go to the beach in the evening, and I can’t believe how delightful it has been.
Our favourite spot. Lakeshore Beach, Sandbanks Provincial Park.
I recently discovered that this timeless open-air activity has become trendy. What was always referred to as swimming is now called Wild Swimming, Open Water Swimming or Cold-water Swimming. It soared in popularity during the pandemic when public pools were closed during lockdowns, and clubs have opened up worldwide with a variety of focus; river, lake, ocean and very cold-water swimming. Many offer Wild Swimming Retreats.
We are all well acquainted with swimming’s low impact on the body and what a fantastic workout it provides. Submerging in cooler water also improves circulation, benefits the immune system, and releases oxytocin and endorphin hormones, which will boost your mood.
I prefer swimming in cooler water because of the jolt of energy it provides, and depending on my mood and water temperatures; I’ll quickly jump in and out; other times, I’ll float around or swim. Many times, I have swum across lakes, channelling my Mom.
I’ve found no matter my mood, a dip in the cool water instantly realigns my physical and mental health. After dealing with the trials and tribulations of life, and the recent heat and humidity waves, I appreciate an evening splash with Ben and Peggy. It’s refreshing, and the sense of euphoria ensures a sound sleep.
I hope you have access to open water, and if not, an evening dip in a public pool under the stars will more than suffice.
Please keep these safety tips in mind
Don’t swim alone.
Know the body of water.
Avoid swimming after a heavy rain or if you notice an accumulation of algae
Educate yourself on rip currents/tides. Video on Rip Currents
Be safe, and take the plunge for your well-being.
Anita
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