Lochaber Loons urge others to go wild about cold water swimming
There has been lot of hype around wild swimming recently, especially during the pandemic when many needed a mental health boost, writes Savannah Cobb-Thomas.
Whether you are a toe dipper, a seasoned veteran or a newbie, local groups are available for you to get a feel for it.
Lochaber is blessed with a long list of swimming locations, salt or fresh water, not to mention the incredible backdrops, making it the perfect place to start wild swimming.
The Lochaber Loons have established themselves on Facebook and are happy to welcome new additions for their weekly dips. Anja Baak, one of the admins and founder of the Lochaber Loons Facebook group, started the group after noticing how popular the activity was on her own swims and saw the opportunity for a
acommunity to form, hoping that community would encourage others to join too.
While wild swimming is not a modern concept, the pandemic has caused a resurgence, with many rediscovering the benefits of this immersive activity.
Speaking to the Lochaber Times, Anja said: ‘Cold water swimming allows stress to float away.’
The benefits of cold water swimming are well documented, from the natural high your body experiences to the improved circulation and the strengthening of your immune system. Lochaber Loons admin Jen Deschene explained: ‘There is no better cure if you are feeling a bit lost or foggy headed than taking a dip in a cold loch or the sea. No matter where you are you will emerge fresh and with a renewed sense of faith in life.’
Fellow member Hannah Barnes agreed. ‘Cold water swimming sets you up for the day by giving you the confidence to know you can overcome the uncomfortable,’ she said. ‘You can build your body’s resistance. After a year I now find it so much easier to get in.’ The community of a wild swimming group also provides a sense of camaraderie.
Loons member Suzy Devey said: ‘You are all together helping each other overcome the challenge. Finding a group is such a nice way to begin wild swimming if you fancy it but are nervous to start.’
Hannah added: ‘Wild swimming is a leveller as anyone of any age or ability can join. It is an activity in which anyone can experience the benefits right away.’ And, she said, the camaraderie of being part of a wild swimming community, such as the Lochaber Loons, helps.
‘Because you’re with a group, even if it is raining you go in because of this camaraderie,’ added Hannah. ‘It is a craving,’ concluded Anja, ‘even the members of the group who couldn’t have imagined involving themselves in this activity are hooked.’
Join the Lochaber Loons Facebook page to find out more.