Cold-water swimmer invites others to experience the benefits by Agnieszka Monk
My cold-water swimming journey began this past October, when a relative came to visit. He has been a cold-water swimmer for 13 years, and while I always found it fascinating, I never imagined trying it myself. Even in summer, I find the water cold. On the last day of his visit, he invited me to join him. Without
overthinking it, I said yes. He suggested I wear neoprene shoes and gloves—and a hat on colder
days.
That same day, I went for my first swim. From that moment on, I was hooked.
As a mom of two young children, I rarely get uninterrupted time for myself. Cold-water swimming became exactly that. It gives me space to breathe and makes me feel alive—physically grounded and
mentally clear.
Over the past three months, I’ve noticed many positive changes. My mood has improved, my stress
tolerance is higher, and my mental resilience is stronger. My heart feels fuller, with a deep sense of
gratitude. I’ve experienced better circulation, improved immunity, and more stable hormones. I have
found that cold-water swimming helps with inflammation, post- workout soreness, menstrual
cramps, fatigue, and improving my focus. Even imagining myself entering the water calms my
anxiety.
Just as importantly, I want my children to see that we are capable of doing hard things. By stepping
outside our comfort zone, we build strength, confidence, and resilience for life’s challenges.
I am truly grateful for this habit, and hope my story inspires you to give it a try. Cold-water swimming
is a mental game—the decision is the hardest part. Once you commit, the rest is simply getting
in and letting your body do what it knows how to do.
A few safety tips:
- Cover your hands, feet, and head.
- Enter the water when you’re
warm and it’s not windy. - Slow your breathing and don’t
panic. - Never swim alone.
- Consult your doctor before
you try cold-water swimming
if you have a heart condition,
Raynaud’s, thyroid disease, or
other medical concerns.
Interested in trying cold-water swimming or dipping?
If you’re interested in trying cold-water swimming or dipping—a briefer exposure to the water than
swimming—I’m starting a group that will swim at Shining Waters Marina, 148 Nautical Way, Tantallon.
We will meet at 10am on Saturdays. We can change inside at Shining Waters and stay for
coffee or breakfast after our swim or dip.
For more information, or if you would prefer a different day, you can contact me at agamonk@ymail.com or on Facebook (search Aga Monk).
Agnieszka Monk
