Swimming offers a unique path to self-discovery and resilience
As a swimming journalist, publisher and mentor, I’ve witnessed many stories of transformation through swimming – each one evidence of the restorative and empowering nature of swimming.
Recently, a new swim mentoring client told me she had returned to swimming in later midlife, having barely been in the water since childhood. She described the experience as a “Renaissance”. But that wasn’t just because of the joy at rediscovering the pleasure of moving through the water. It had a profound impact on her life.
Like many people in of a similar age, she is dealing with significant stress and long-term health issues. But she found that swimming – especially cold water swimming – coincided with a reduction in symptoms and a sense of coping better with stressful life issues.
It sounds remarkable, but it’s not unusual. The mechanisms are not fully understood but we know that cold water immersion triggers a stress response. One theory suggests that deliberately putting yourself through this stress in a controlled way is partially protective against the effects of bigger life stresses, sort of like an anti-stress vaccine.
I find the rhythmic movement and controlled breathing of longer swims provides a meditative escape. I also find the low-intensity physical activity of swimming can be physically and mentally healing.
You may find the same benefits from other activities, but swimming has unique qualities that set it apart. It’s gentle on joints yet builds strength, endurance, and cardiovascular health. It’s a space where time seems to slow. Once you’ve achieved basic water confidence and let go of the struggle to stay afloat, it allows you to focus on each movement and breath. Swimming is a mindfulness practice that fosters resilience and self-discovery (a Renaissance ideal, by the way).
Also, when we swim, we’re forced to give up our connected digital devices, which means swimming can become a sanctuary.
Another thing that makes swimming special is its accessibility. Whether you’re starting out and just managing a few strokes or have been swimming for life and are aiming for competitive speed or long-distance challenges, the benefits are available to all.
How to experience your own Renaissance through swimming
- Start Slowly: If you’re starting out, begin with short sessions and simple goals to build confidence and avoid injury.
- Reassess your swimming: for those of you who have been swimming a while, take some time to reflect. Are you getting all the benefits you can from swimming? Would trying something new in swimming give you more?
- Find a supportive community: Swim groups or a mentor can provide encouragement and guidance. This will help you improve faster and make the most of the water.
The Renaissance Swimmer project is designed to encourage you to try a wide range of swimming activities and become a competent all-round swimmer. Not only will your swimming improve, but you will enjoy more of the benefits of swimming. This, in turn, will have positive spillover effects on your life.
It’s personal development through swimming.