December 26th 2024.
The holidays are a time for giving, whether it's buying presents for your loved ones or giving back to those in need through charity work. However, for some, the traditional ways of giving just don't cut it. Instead of tossing some coins into the nearest donation tin or helping out at a local food bank, some people take a more extreme approach - plunging into the freezing cold sea.
Boxing Day and New Year's Day dips have become increasingly popular, with more and more people donning festive attire like Santa hats, reindeer antlers, or snowman costumes as they brave the icy waters. These dips are held all across the country, from Weymouth to Ramsgate, Sunderland to Llandudno. The rise in popularity of these events seems to coincide with the growing interest in wild swimming, where people opt for natural bodies of water instead of the usual swimming pools.
But what drives these individuals to take the plunge into the freezing cold sea every year? Why not just do a sponsored silence or participate in Movember to raise money for charity? Metro decided to investigate.
Ryan Hope is the organizer of the Christmas Harbour Swim in Weymouth, which raises funds for various charities through the local Lions club. He describes the event as a "must-attend celebration of holiday fun, community pride, and generous giving," with thousands of people gathering to support the hundreds of brave swimmers each year.
Jenny Urwin, co-founder of Warmcor, a company that produces open water swimming gear, recalls her first New Year's Day dip where she was bundled up in neoprene from head to toe. She was amazed by a mother and daughter who took the plunge in just their regular swimwear. Jenny was inspired and determined to be like them, comfortable enough to swim in the coldest temperatures. She explains, "My first dip on New Year's Day was like a personal challenge. I wanted to be able to swim in just my regular swimwear on the coldest day of the year. And now, it's not just a dare, it's a refreshing rush that can't be found anywhere else."
Jenny goes on to explain the physical and mental benefits of cold water swimming. Swimming in cold water triggers the release of happy hormones, leaving you feeling euphoric and energized long after you leave the water. It also activates the vagus nerve, which can lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and improve cardiovascular health. On top of that, regular dips can strengthen the immune system and make you more resilient to seasonal illnesses. But the real magic lies in the mental shift that occurs after braving the cold waters - it's hard not to feel a sense of accomplishment and think, "If I can do this, what else can I achieve?"
It's clear that there are many physical benefits to regular cold water swimming, making the idea of a Boxing Day dip more appealing. But what about the mental health benefits? Psychotherapist Laura Greenwood discovered wild swimming in 2020, after feeling like she had lost herself following the birth of her baby the year before. She describes wild swimming as a piece of the puzzle that helped her find herself again. She says, "The first time I tried it, I wasn't sure if I enjoyed it or not. But there was something about the experience that kept drawing me back. It wakes up my body, mind, and soul and helps me recognize that everything is okay."
So why do people continue to go back for more, participating in charity dips or just getting involved in wild swimming in general? Psychotherapist Katherine Cavallo explains that studies have shown wild swimming can reduce the stress hormone cortisol and increase happiness hormones like serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins. Swimmers often experience a sense of calm and mindfulness while in the water. She also mentions the exhilaration and euphoria that comes with wild swimming, making it almost addictive for some. It's no wonder that many describe it as life-changing.
Despite the many benefits, it's crucial to stay safe while wild swimming. Nick Ayers, RNLI Water Safety Lead, warns of the dangers of cold water shock and hypothermia when entering water 15°C or below. He advises people to be aware of the conditions before getting in, wear proper gear, acclimatize slowly, and avoid swimming alone. And in case of any trouble, always call for help.
In the end, it's evident that cold water swimming has numerous physical and mental health benefits, making it an attractive option for many. Whether it's participating in a charity dip or just taking a dip in the sea on a regular basis, the sense of joy, resilience, and belonging that comes with wild swimming is something that stays with you long after you've dried off. So next time you see a group of people dressed in festive attire jumping into the cold sea, remember the magic that lies beneath the surface.
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