As the temperature drops, many might shy away from the cooler temps and be reluctant to take a dip in the ocean.
But did you know, ocean swimming in winter has numerous positive effects? Manly ocean swimmer Linda Goodwin loves taking the plunge during the colder months.
“After a cold swim you get a natural high. You feel invigorated and alive,” Ms Goodwin said.
“Personally, I never regret being in or around the ocean no matter what the conditions, it has a certain healing power, it improves your mood and sets you up for the day ahead,” she said.
Why try ocean swimming?
Ms Goodwin believes that ocean swimming, especially in winter, has multiple mental and physical benefits that include :
- a boost to the immune system
- a natural high
- an improvement to blood flow and circulation
- an effective way to burn calories
- a reduction in stress
- improving overall wellbeing and mental health.
“It's absolutely awesome and puts my serotonin levels through the roof,” Ms Goodwin said.
“Cold water immersion makes you feel so good and alive. The high stays with you for the whole day – it’s great to know you’ve had an outdoor adventure before breakfast, when everyone else around you is missing out and hiding from the elements.”
Another bonus, and something Ms Goodwin loves, is that during winter the water clarity and visibility is so much better.
“You wouldn’t believe just how many different species of marine life you can spot during the winter months,” she said.
“And you will see the most spectacular, vivid sunrises. The ocean conditions are calmer and it’s far less windy.”
While some might be nervous about the chilly water, Ms Goodwin reassures new ocean winter swimmers that on average, August has the coldest water temperature of around 16 degrees compared to the warmest summer temperatures around January at 22 degrees.
“I doubt you'll regret the feeling of the cold water fully waking you up!”
Tips on what to wear while winter ocean swimming
Everyone has different comfort levels when it comes to the cold, but Ms Goodwin warns to be mindful that core body temperature can drop very quickly in cold water, and suggests wearing a wet suit for warmth and comfort.
“It all depends on how brave you are. I wear a wetsuit as its primary purpose is to keep you warmer, which can help you stay comfortable in the water for longer and reduces your risk of hypothermia,” she said.
“A wetsuit can also provide the extra lift you need, which will make it easier for you to float as you calm down and focus on lowering your heart rate.”
So why not step out of your (warm) comfort zone and experience the thrill of dipping your toes into the oceans this winter. Take the plunge!