10 Benefits of Wild Swimming for Perimenopause
Wild swimming as a hobby has exploded in recent years – and I jumped on that bandwagon myself just over a year ago.
It’s the perfect time to get started if you’ve always fancied it, with the temperature much of course much easier to bear than in the Winter months!
Since I started wild swimming, my mental and physical health has been much improved, and I’ve become quite addicted to cold water! I’ve seen a marked difference in perimenopausal symptoms too – here are 10 ways it can help reduce them:
1. Reduces Hot Flushes
Hot flushes are one of the most common symptoms of perimenopause, and they’re the symptom that made me realise I was perimenopausal! Waking up in drenched sheets is not the one – and wild swimming can help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flushes by regulating our body temperature.
2. Boosts Mood
Wild swimming has been shown to boost mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression – there is a certain buzz and high to it too! The cool water and natural surroundings can have a calming effect on the mind and body, and certainly from my experience I have found it a great way to relax.
3. Increases Energy
Perimenopause can cause fatigue and low energy levels. Wild swimming can help increase energy by stimulating blood flow and releasing endorphins, and if you’ve ever done it, you’ll understand that swimmers high! I never want to get out once I’m in!!
4. Improves Sleep
Insomnia is another common symptom of perimenopause, and arguably one of the most debilitating, since sleep impacts everything else. Wild swimming can improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing stress – winner winner!
5. Lowers Blood Pressure
Wild swimming has been shown to lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health. This can be especially beneficial during perimenopause when women are at a higher risk for heart disease. I was actually recently in hospital having my heart checked out due to what turned out to be some perimenopausal symptoms coupled with indigestion (!), and the Doctor remarked how incredibly healthy my ECG was… and the crazy thing was, it was an improvement on one I’d had 18 months previously!
6. Boosts Immune System
Wild swimming can boost the immune system by increasing circulation and reducing inflammation. This can help prevent illness and promote overall health. Who doesn’t want that?
7. Increases Strength and Flexibility
Wild swimming is a low-impact exercise that can increase strength and flexibility. This can be especially beneficial during perimenopause when we’re likely to experience muscle and joint pain. From personal experience I’ve found it a great way to add in exercise in a beautiful, natural setting.
8. Promotes Weight Loss
Perimenopause can make it difficult to maintain a healthy weight. But kiss goodbye to hours in the gym – Wild swimming can help promote weight loss by burning calories and boosting metabolism. I’ve noticed a big difference in my weight since starting wild swimming!
9. Improves Skin Health
Wild swimming can improve skin health by increasing circulation and promoting the production of collagen. This can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve overall skin tone – yippee! While I am also using collagen and great skincare, I can’t pretend my skim doesn’t look better than it ever has in my 40s – and if wild swimming is helping, even better!
10. Provides a Sense of Community
Wild swimming is often done in groups or clubs, providing a sense of community and support – the people I’ve met wild swimming have been lovely, and so supportive, keeping each other safe, and even bringing cake!
As you can see, wild swimming can provide many benefits for women during perimenopause. So grab your swimsuit and head to the nearest body of water for a refreshing dip! If you’re local to Cambridge or Norfolk, hit me up – I’m always up for new swimming buddies!
