Winter Wild Swimming Safety

a workshop with Ann Berrett of Boundaries Beyond

Wednesday 16th October 7pm - 8.30pm

£25

Join us at the studio for an informative evening, giving you the knowledge and confidence to enter into the wonderful world of Winter Wild Swimming.

Wild swimming has become increasingly popular over the past few years (we at the studio swim all year round, and many of you may have joined us at our regular wild dips) There are numerous reasons for this: recreation, fitness, wellbeing, social or to compete in open water swimming events.

Health benefits include improved cardiovascular fitness, increased lung capacity, enhanced mental wellbeing through exposure to nature, and potential improvements in immune function. Cold water swimming can trigger the release of endorphins, which are your body's natural "feel-good" chemicals. Endorphins are released in response to various stressors, including exposure to cold water. They can contribute to a sense of euphoria, improved mood and reduced perception of pain. Engaging in cold water swimming regularly may lead to increased endorphin production over time, potentially enhancing your overall sense of wellbeing and mental resilience. For these reasons, it can help to treat low mood and depression.

Engaging in frequent cold water swimming sessions, whether through swims or dips, unveils a sense of appreciation for the outdoors. It significantly benefits the mind, body and spirit.  Few experiences are as grounding as swimming while witnessing such magical sights such as  the vivid blue and orange hues of a kingfisher darting by or being serenaded by the cheerful chattering of finches and other bids amidst trees and bushes.

It is however crucial to counterbalance the extensive advantages with the potential hazards inevitable to exposure to cold water swimming. This workshop will cover everything you need to know about cold water swimming, giving you the knowledge and confidence to swim outside with joy all year round.

There will of course be cups of herbal tea and a sweet treat during the evening, as is customary at the studio!

Meet the Tutor

Hi, I’m Ann Berrett founder of ‘Boundaries Beyond’.

As far back as I can remember I have been an open water wild swimmer and love to always be outside in the woodlands and meadows.

Some years ago, I trained as an Open Water Swimming Coach with STA (SwimTeacher Association). I have completed several Wim Hof Workshops and am experienced in swimming in many types of bodies of water i.e rivers, waterfalls, lakes, seas, tarns and lochs. I really love taking groups to the places I love and sharing the mindful experience with them.

I regularly swim in various locations in Wiltshire such as the river Avon, Frome and Kennet along with a variety of other places throughout the country. I am often asked what my favourite places to swim are – I have so many! But if pushed to, I would have to say that I love to swim in waterfalls, as the sounds of the water grounds me and calms my mind and soul. I also love swimming off Brownsea Island as the walk to the beach though the magnificent trees is spectacular and fills me with joy.

I am passionate about everyone being able to access and enjoy the outdoors safely and to share the knowledge of how to complete their own dynamic risk assessment with joy.