Swimmers in Cornwall urged to cold dip for mental and physical health
A Cornish sea swimmer who learnt to front crawl in her 40s says it's a way for people to find community
People across Cornwall are being encouraged to take a dip in the sea to boost physical and mental health.
It comes as this week is Mental Health Awareness Week.
Research from the British Heart Foundation reveals 70% of people don’t know about its ability to boost cardiovascular health.
Lorraine Candy, Pensilva, learned to front crawl in her late 40s and now regularly braves the chill of open water.
She told us: "One of the things around open water swimming in particular is immense social connection. When you look at longevity, good social connection is the main predictor for a long and healthy life."
BHF also found since the London Marathon, 1 in 5 Brits are taking on a new personal challenge-based goal with a growing number across the UK are taking to lakes, lidos and coastal waters to take up cold-water swimming.
Cold water swimming can lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and help manage key risk factors for heart disease.
Some find relief from anxiety or grief; others experience a new sense of routine and community.
Lorraine said: "I just wish more people would weave it into their life. You don't have to go to the sea, if you can't you can cold water swim in pools and lidos."
Data also reveals a growing number of people say they’ve considered giving it a try, but early half of respondents said they’re put off by the cold, while others cited safety concerns or a lack of confidence in open water.
Lorraine added: "I was a hopeless front crawl swimmer and it took me a year to get my head around it not being a sport, and I can just be in the water and that's enough."
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