Wild swim your way to mindfulness

We are so accustomed to a technology-filled world that it can prove difficult to switch off.

In the past year, many people have reconnected with nature, began a new hobby or even changed their lifestyles to improve their wellness.   

Some have changed their lifestyles through the restorative Wim Hof method. The Wim Hof Method is the more affordable, natural alternative to cold-body therapy, in the form of cryotherapy chambers, that we often hear professional athletes and celebrities swearing by.   

Here at Dry Bags, we strongly recommend a safety first approach and that all wild swimmers use either a Floating Dry Bag or, Tow Float. These not only help make you visible to other people out on the water in boats, and to people on the bank, they are also great for holding on to for a rest, should you need it mid swim. They generate no discernible drag. Want somewhere safe for your phone and car keys? Check out the waterproof bum bag. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Wim Hof Method sees you submerge in cold water, and you can even practice from your own home by taking a cold bath or shower, although most tend to do this outdoors. The second part of the WHM involves breathing techniques similar to the ones used in Pranayama and Tibetan Tummo meditation.

Thirdly, the WHM focuses on using third-eye meditation techniques. Visualising your third eye clears your mind from the daily stresses of life and creates a more focused atmosphere. The Wim Hof Method’s correlation with ancient meditation techniques is seeing many people using cold water exposure in the pursuit of mindfulness.   

  

What is mindfulness?  

People have begun using a combination of WHM and traditional meditation practices to achieve mindfulness in their every day and combat the many stresses of daily life. Mindfulness is, by mindful.org’s definition, “the basic human ability to be fully present and aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not over reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us”. Which undoubtedly plays a huge role in why so many people have sought mindfulness in the past year.  

 

What about the physical benefits of cold-water exposure?  

Frequent wild swimming or exposure to cold water has been linked to several different health benefits. Many researchers have found evidence that exposure to cold water can speed up our metabolisms and reduce inflammation, swelling or sole muscles.  

Coldwater exposure has more recently been linked to its restorative values, including improved quality of sleep, more focus, and reducing symptoms of depression to name just a few. Making the British Isles the perfect place to practice all year round as cold water certainly isn’t in short supply!