The Ice Mile - 3 Years On
Cold water swimmer, Becca Harvey, takes us over the course of a year as she prepares for the challenge of an Ice Mile.
What Are The Benefits Of Swimming In The Sea?
Written by Luke Green /
Many of us enjoy a swim in the sea particularly during the summer months, however you may be surprised to hear that this is also good for our physical and mental health. What are the benefits of swimming in the sea and why are they important? Let’s find out!
Soothing & Strengthening Skin
Nothing beats that glowy skin feeling that you get after spending time in the sea, and you may be surprised to hear that there’s some real science behind this. Seawater is actually packed full of minerals that act as natural cosmetics for the skin including magnesium, sodium, calcium, chloride and sulphate. Seawater that is rich in magnesium helps skin feel fresh and vibrant by absorbing toxins and reducing inflammation. Research also suggests that the minerals found in the sea can help with skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Wearing a Red Original changing robe after your swim will dry skin off quickly, and the soft materials used are soothing on sensitive skin. Our microfibre changing robe for example is made from 200gsm suede microfibre that absorbs 4x its weight in water without changing its soft feel or light weight.
Boosting The Immune System
When discussing “what are the benefits of swimming in the sea”, it’s important to note the significance of temperature. This is because cold water swimming has its own unique benefits. One of these benefits is boosting the immune system as the cold water helps to regulate your antioxidant system and white blood cell count. It also flushes your veins, arteries and capillaries helping to boost circulation. Seawater also contains anti-bacterial microorganisms that act as natural prebiotics. If you’re cold water swimming then make sure to have a waterproof change robe ready to put on after your swim to help you warm up quickly when you exit the water.
Boosting Metabolism
Swimming is a great form of exercise for working your entire body, however you can burn even more calories by swimming in the sea rather than in a pool. This is because the cold water requires your body to work harder in order to regulate its temperature. This is really good for boosting your metabolic system, and generally giving you a really worthwhile workout. Open water swimming requires a greater amount of endurance and strength than swimming in a pool due to the more challenging natural conditions. When swimming in open water it’s essential to keep yourself well hydrated before and after you get in the water and so make sure to bring a reusable water bottle with you.
Easing Sinus-Related Issues
Asking the question “what are the benefits of swimming in the sea” throws up many surprising answers, and one of these is its ability to ease sinus issues. As sea water is salty, it’s thought that the saline effect of the sea can help to reduce inflammation and blocking of the sinuses. This in turn can reduce the symptoms of sinusitis and hay fever as well as helping to promote the health of the respiratory system. This makes it the perfect activity for hay fever sufferers to help relieve symptoms when the pollen count is at its highest.
Improving Mental Wellbeing
We’ve discussed many physical benefits of sea swimming, but what are the benefits of swimming in the sea for your mental health? One of the biggest benefits of wild swimming is its role in helping to reduce anxiety and stress. Studies have shown that water therapy helps to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, and this is combined with the positive impact that being surrounded by nature has on the mind. It’s also been suggested that the magnesium found in ocean water helps to relax muscles, enabling you to release stress and enjoy deeper sleep.
Expanding Your Social Group
Doing sports and activities is a great way to meet new people and sea swimming is no exception to this. There is a huge community of people who enjoy open water swimming, making it easy to find a local club or organisation where you can find like minded people to enjoy this popular hobby with. This is a fun way of doing some great exercise whilst expanding your social circle at the same time. Joining the Outdoor Swimming Society is a great way to find fellow wild swimmers in your local area.
If you have any further queries regarding “what are the benefits of sea swimming”, or for help finding essential gear for your next wild swim, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
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