By Megan Thomas
Last Winter, I met someone who swam every day of the year in the UK. I expressed my eagerness to do the same, and she said the trick was to start in the summer and never stop and that’s just what I’ve been doing.
Naturally, I have taken my new interest for the cold water further than just doing it (classic Meg, just tacking on character traits as I go along like I’m a Sim ) and bought Dr Mark Harper’s book on it. Oh, and a bright orange Passenger dry robe. For good measure. I’ll have moved to the seaside by the end of the year at this rate!
The book is interesting, well-written and thorough, covering everything you need to know about the science/art of cold water swimming, arming you with the facts so you’re always prepared when someone asks if you’ve lost the plot. Not to mention some top tips on how to not lose a toe or end up hypothermic!
It was especially lovely to read anecdotal stories of people for whom cold water swimming has been life-changing, from managing chronic pain and depression to creating a sense of community and achievement with something which is largely free and accessible to all (except perhaps us Londoners). From my personal experience, I wasn’t necessarily looking for any cure in particular, but have found my swims give me a calming clarity of mind and put a spring in my step for the rest of the day after.
BUY THE BOOK: Waterstones | Book Depository | Foyles | Amazon
Disclaimer: I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please get in touch if your preferred online platform is not listed here – I’ll see what I can do!
Read more non-fiction about the natural world:
Have You Read This 