Swimming in cold water has the ability to boost dopamine levels and increases the release of endorphins, as well as reducing symptoms of anxiety and stress.
Overcoming the resistance of entering cold water can help to build mental resilience, in turn boosting self-esteem and confidence.
The feeling of the cold water combined with being in nature helps build a connection between the body and mind and can make a person feel more present which is particularly important for those dealing with depression, PTSD and anxiety who can often feel trapped in their own minds. People that take part in cold water swimming often describe it as a high that will last all day.
There are many different forms of cold-water swimming from ice bath plunges, wild lakes, outdoor pools, stretches of river or even a simple cold shower. But, for Eastbourne based swimming group The Double Dippers, they opt for the ocean.
The Double Dippers are a sea swimming group that started two years ago and has been growing ever since. The group swims all year round in all weather conditions in order to feel the benefits of cold-water swimming.
The group started as just a few friends going in the sea for charity in order to raise money and awareness for Group B Strep Support, an organisation that works towards preventing Group B Strep infection in babies. But since then, more and more have joined the group and it has become The Double Dippers. They meet up and swim multiple times a week and their only rule is you must go into the sea twice!
Kate Laws, member of the Double Dippers said: “It’s like a free high, you could be in a bad mood but then you go into the sea and come back out and feel much more positive which will last for most of the day.
Being a part of a group like the Double Dippers helps with the positivity by being around lovely people all sharing the same love for the sea and it’s just a really great opportunity to get together, have a chat and feel good.”
Swimming groups are notoriously friendly so being in a group like this can create a real sense of community. Being a part of a community has massive benefits for a person’s mental health as it can provide a feeling of belonging, support and identity. Having a strong support group around you is really important.
Terri Brown, member of the Double Dippers said: “It makes you feel more alive and more grounded and less aware of your own stuff. It’s really fun being a part of a group and when it’s cold in the sea you don’t always particularly want to go in but when you’re with others it eggs you on. If you’re by yourself you’ll probably chicken out.”
When you immerse yourself in icy cold water, it sends your nervous system in your brain into overload. The nerve endings send responses to your brain so it can detect which parts of your body are cold. The brain only has a limited bandwidth and with this intensity there is no room for other thoughts about worries, stress and anxieties. This enables a sense of mindfulness by allowing a person to focus on the present moment.
Nature’s waters can be beautiful and refreshing, but they come with their own set of risks. Always swim with caution—be aware of currents and weather conditions. Stick to designated swimming areas, never swim alone, and make sure you’re familiar with the water’s depth and potential hazards. Your safety should always come first!