Participant Responses

Participant Responses

After my own experience of Newcastle City Baths, informal interviews (conversations) took place in the cafe/foyer space of the baths. This enabled conversations to start when people were purchasing snacks and drinks when leaving the facilities. Open questions were asked about how the water benefited them, how does it made them feel being in water and what aspects of the pool created a lasting environment. Clear themes were then identified as a result of the conversations which are key to exploring the research topic further.

When asked about how being in water benefited them, the respondents all touched upon the idea of the benefits water had on their health, both mentally and physically. For instance, illnesses, conditions and injuries. It was clear that the only negative of being in water was that it could be exhausting, however it was concluded that the positives clearly outweighed the negatives. One respondent noted the effect that water had on his arthritic condition.

Respondent C:

‘The water allows me to feel like I’m as light as a feather which takes all of the pressure off my joints, it’s truly amazing how it does it. I feel like a new person when I leave the pool’

It is identified from all the responses that being immersed in water does have numerous and diverse health benefits with lasting affects. The water has a clear impact on individuals everyday life, affecting people positively in different ways

Participant Responses

Another key theme that emerged throughout the conversations was the overall sensation and stimulation of being in water that had a positive effect on both the body and mind. Respondent A mentioned the peace and tranquillity that being in water provided her with.

‘It allows me to forget about everything that is going on and lets me focus on stretching and relaxing every element in my body’ Respondent A:

All respondents highlight the incredible power that water has on

the brain and mind.

When respondents were asked about what key aspects create an experience, there were mixed responses. One respondent noted the architectural features of the skylights within the roof which created a magical environment whereas others highlighted the ability to be able to see underwater into a new world of people enjoying themselves. Respondent B: ‘I love how the light shines into the pool and makes the water sparkle and glisten during my early morning swim sessions. It’s an amazing way to start the day.’

It has been highlighted from the respondents that different elements of a pool environment make a different experience for each individual.