TOP FIVE TIPS: Swimming outdoors with Jill Barnard
VALA pal and designer/art director extraordinaire @jill.barnard is taking over this week's guest spot with her top five reasons to try outdoor swimming. Several years ago, Jill waved goodbye to London life, made her way down to Cornwall and has been a part-time mermaid ever since. Given that we have different lockdown guidelines in Wales and outdoor swimming is currently off limits, I've been living for Jill's drool-worthy feed to get my fix of ocean dipping. Check out her reasons to give open water swimming a go below:
YOU NEVER REGRET GETTING IN
Cliché as it might sound, a dip first thing in the morning sets you up for the day ahead and fills you with a sense of achievement. Pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone builds confidence – you have already done something awesome before brekkie!
NATURE NURTURES
Being in the sea and amongst the elements is a great leveller. It reminds you of the power of nature. Your mind is forced to focus on the present instead of to-do lists, or work/home stresses. You are too busy noticing the sensation of the water, the temperature of your body, the strength of any waves and where you are in the sea. You appreciate the changing colours of the sky, the clouds, the light reflecting on the water – it's constantly changing so every swim feels different. You feel a sense of liberation and freedom.
IT DOESN’T COST ANYTHING
For the basics, all you need are some swimmers and a towel (as well as goggles and a swim cap, if you like). I don't swim in a wetsuit in Cornwall, but that's also an option.
COUNTLESS HEALTH BENEFITS
Swimming in cold, open water has so many health benefits. It gives a natural boost to your immune system and cold water is said to increase your white blood cell production. It improves your circulation, triggers a release of the feel-good hormone dopamine and reduces stress. Winner!
COMMUNITY
Whilst we are all having to be careful and socially distance ourselves at the moment, I have found a real sense of community and support from my swim buddies. It’s a lovely way to make new friends and meet new people.
YOU NEVER REGRET GETTING IN
Cliché as it might sound, a dip first thing in the morning sets you up for the day ahead and fills you with a sense of achievement. Pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone builds confidence – you have already done something awesome before brekkie!
NATURE NURTURES
Being in the sea and amongst the elements is a great leveller. It reminds you of the power of nature. Your mind is forced to focus on the present instead of to-do lists, or work/home stresses. You are too busy noticing the sensation of the water, the temperature of your body, the strength of any waves and where you are in the sea. You appreciate the changing colours of the sky, the clouds, the light reflecting on the water – it's constantly changing so every swim feels different. You feel a sense of liberation and freedom.
IT DOESN’T COST ANYTHING
For the basics, all you need are some swimmers and a towel (as well as goggles and a swim cap, if you like). I don't swim in a wetsuit in Cornwall, but that's also an option.
COUNTLESS HEALTH BENEFITS
Swimming in cold, open water has so many health benefits. It gives a natural boost to your immune system and cold water is said to increase your white blood cell production. It improves your circulation, triggers a release of the feel-good hormone dopamine and reduces stress. Winner!
COMMUNITY
Whilst we are all having to be careful and socially distance ourselves at the moment, I have found a real sense of community and support from my swim buddies. It’s a lovely way to make new friends and meet new people.