If you sometimes walk along the “Rade” of Geneva, you might see ‘crazy’ people swimming in throughout the whole winter. Why are those people doing this?
Well, for many different good reasons! I do not want you to do the same but want you to know what benefits people of all age could benefit from this. In the end it should be everyone’s free decision without any pressure.
As you probably know that this activity isn’t free of risk. Let’s first see what the main mistakes are that could be dangerous:
- Swimming alone
- Going far in deep water whatever your condition and swimming ability is.
- Not being progressive in emerging your body
- Too long exposure to the cold
- Not having green light from your health practitioner
- Never do it if you have heart problems
This list is not to discourage you either. As I said, it should be entirely your decision after you know weigh the pros and cons.
Having a small group with the same challenge in mind could be a great experience. However, it’s important that the challenge is yours and not one of your team mate’s who might have a much higher ambition. Mutual encouragement is fine, but no one should push you over your own limits! Maybe just a short time of immersing or even partially immersing your body in the cold water might be enough or the best for you.
So, why to do it? For several physical and mental health reasons.
- It boosts the immune system
- By endorphin activation, it makes us feel good and improves mental health
- Improves blood and lymphatic circulation
- It burns calories and improves metabolism
- Reduces stress and depression
- Great way of socializing
- It provides pain relief
- It stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system and helps you rest
If you think that you would enjoy any of these benefits or if you feel like taking on this kind of challenge, grab your bathing suit and join me for a swim!