In a previous post, I emphasised the importance of self-care. Ironically, that very day, a tempting message arrived: ‘Anyone up for a swim this afternoon?’ It was a clear sign I needed to embrace my own advice.

The empowering hashtag #whyisign celebrates the significance of sign language. For me, #whyiswim carries a similar weight. Swimming, like signing (which is equally important and empowering for me), offers profound benefits for my well-being.

So, why is swimming such an integral part of my life? Here are the key reasons:

1. The Joy of Unrestricted Movement: I recognise the privilege of being able to swim with relative ease. Unlike running, which I find challenging, swimming feels natural and liberating. My ‘happy place,’ a sensory experience I once described in a flowing piece about swimming in the sea (see below), highlights this deep connection to the water.

2. Unparalleled Stability and Safety: Years of swimming have cultivated exceptional proprioceptive awareness. Even after vestibular damage threatened my ability to swim, I found a way to adapt. The water offers a unique sanctuary where, aside from sitting or lying down, I am completely free from the risk of falling. While I manage other challenges like the fact that I will not hear others (by making myself as visible as possible, considering where I swim, swimming with those who can hear etc), this inherent safety is a significant advantage.

3. Enhanced Breathing and Pain Relief: The discipline of exhaling with each stroke has a remarkable calming effect, preventing a ‘threat response’ in my body. This, combined with the cold water, provides significant relief from pain and inflammation. Open water swimming often offers a rare respite from chronic pain.

4. Deepening Mindfulness and Presence: The combined benefits above create an environment conducive to profound mindfulness. In the water, my focus naturally shifts to my surroundings, my breath, and my movement. Lingering worries or frustrations tend to fade quickly, replaced by a strong sense of being present in the moment. It's a powerful antidote to persistent negative thoughts.

Poem also available to watch via Video (Youtube)

It is just me. Me and the vast ocean.

Nothing, and everything. Holding me. I feel weightless.

The gentle, constant stroke of the water Soothing my soul

I rock side to side. Raising my arms overhead.

Catching the water and seeing the bubbles Deftly escaping my fingers

Power and strength as the water and I meet in embrace

I push, and roll All I see is dark blue. And me.

The long arm and hand stretched out Each stroke a move towards the unknown vast of ocean

I breathe

The land a steady rock  The colours of beach huts dance across my eyes

The blue sky winks and reminds me: Right now, all my worries, there is nothing I can do. 

But swim. All is well with the world.

It is just me.  Me, and the vast ocean. 

(Copyright Verity Green)

#phd #stress #trauma