Why we love wild water swimming

Wild water swimming, or open water swimming, is the practice of swimming in a natural body of water. There is something wonderfully exhilarating about mustering up the courage to plunge into cold water and swimming with the elements as birds swoop up ahead and dragonflies flutter by.

Here, at Suryalila, we’re lucky enough to be situated in a beautiful mountainous region with winding rivers and lakes.

On a hot summer’s day, our favourite things to do are either to walk the shady Majaceite river trail between the pretty white villages of El Bosque and Benamahoma and take a refreshing dip in the natural rock pools flowing with clear mountain water.

Or, go to Arcos Lake and enjoy a relaxing swim in the gently rippling waters, whilst admiring the sight of the stunning hilltop village of Arcos de la Frontera in the distance. Not only is swimming in open waters incredibly refreshing and relaxing, but it also has a whole host of health benefits.

These include:

• Reduce stress and anxiety

• Ease depression

• Reduce swelling and inflammation

• Boost circulation & immune system

• Release ‘feel good’ hormones

• Can be deeply meditative

• Feel revitalised & re-energised

Do you love wild water swimming or feel inspired to give it a go? If so, we’d love to hear from you! However, if the thought of swimming in open water leaves you feeling cold (excuse the pun!), then try these easy ways to try cold water exposure at home:

1. Have a cold shower (or turn your shower to cold for the last couple of minutes).

2. Prepare a cold foot bath. Put cold water and ice in a bucket and submerge your feet for around 15-20 minutes.

3. Transform your inflatable swimming pool into a DIY ice bath!

Safety first

If you’re considering going wild water or open water swimming, then there are a few things to consider.

• The shock of cold water can have adverse effects on the body especially if you have high blood pressure or pre-existing heart disease. If in doubt, always consult your doctor first.

• Rivers, lakes and the sea can have uneven surfaces and sharp slippery rocks. Be careful where you are stepping.

• Watch out for weeds and algae to avoid getting entangled or suffering from a skin rash/eye irritation.

As wild and open water swimming continues to grow in popularity, lots more safety information can be found online.

Try open water swimming on our Yoga, Nature & White Villages Retreat

Experience the magic of swimming in the natural rock pools dotted along the Majaceite river trail and in the rippling waters of Arcos lake in our upcoming Yoga, Nature & White Villages Retreat.

Taking place between the 26th August - 2nd September, enjoy a week of yoga and delicious food surrounded by the natural beauty of Suryalila whilst discovering the hidden gems of Cadiz province. The perfect combination of relaxation and sightseeing in the Spanish sunshine.

Follow this link to learn more.