TAKING THE PLUNGE Bethany Birch explores the benefits of cold water swimming in one of the most beautiful spots in North Wales…
With seawater temperatures along the North Welsh coast averaging at around 9.5°C during April, the proposal of a cold water swim is likely to be far from tempting. A stark contrast from the warmer waters that we’re far more familiar with throughout the summer months, making an August dip may feel almost balmy in comparison. So why are so many braving the cold waters and heading to our local lakes and oceans now more than ever? Offering a plethora of benefits, cold water therapy has convinced plenty to brave the cold waters this winter. Alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression, boosting the immune system and easing chronic pain conditions, cold water exposure promises plenty of positives.
Long-standing sea swimmer, Karen Harvey, has experienced the benefits of cold water exposure first hand. Living in
And, with a wealth of rivers, lakes, waterfalls as well as
Pwllheli, Karen has been heading to the beach for a salty swim
open sea, North Wales poses as the perfect place to give
for 22 years. “I’ve been swimming almost daily through the
cold water swimming a try. Whether it be inland, nestled in
last two winters, bar storms, and have absolutely loved it,” says
the mountains or looping through our villages, or the shores
Karen. “The biggest thrill of all is swimming when there is
of coves and coastal inlets, there are bodies of water just
snow on the mountains.”
tempting you to join them all across North Wales – we’re truly spoilt for choice!
WITH SEAWATER TEMPERATURES ALONG THE NORTH WELSH COAST AVERAGING AT AROUND 9.5°C DURING APRIL, THE PROPOSAL OF A COLD WATER SWIM IS LIKELY TO BE FAR FROM TEMPTING
Drawn to the area after holidaying here with her family, she is now proud to call North Wales home. After all, with its soaring peaks and impeccable coastline, what’s not to love? The main difference that Karen has noticed since swimming through the winters is the improvement of her chronic pain condition and hypermobility. Diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 2000, Karen has suffered from chronic muscular and skeletal pain, fatigue and other problems for decades. “Since committing to swimming through the winter months I have felt stronger and have gradually been able to manage
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