The Benefits of Open Water Swimming for Mental Health

Swimming, particularly in open water, has been found to have numerous mental health benefits. It reduces stress and anxiety, boosts immunity, increases well-being, and elevates both mental and physical health.

Whenever I swim in the ocean or a lake I feel tremendous freedom and peace. It’s like an effective medicine for treating anxiety, depression, sleep problems and other stressors in life.

In This Article

Main Benefits of Open Water Swimming
Therapeutic Benefits of Open Water Swimming
Positive Experience in Open Water Swimming
How to Get Started With Open Water Swimming
Basic Gear for Open Water Swimming
Bottom Line

Main Benefits of Open Water Swimming

One of the primary benefits of swimming for mental health is the increase in the production of endorphins. Endorphins are neurotransmitters that reduce pain perception and bring about feelings of positivity, happiness, and well-being. Swimming, like other forms of exercise, triggers the release of these endorphins, leading to a natural mood boost and a reduction in symptoms of anxiety and depression.

In addition to the release of endorphins, the breathing pattern in swimming helps regulate breathing, which is essential in managing stress and panic attacks. The rhythmic breathing technique practiced during swimming can have a calming effect on the mind and body, promoting relaxation, and reducing anxiety.

Therapeutic Benefits of Open Water Swimming

Open water swimming offers additional therapeutic benefits that are not found in traditional pool swimming. These benefits include embodiment, mindful presence, a sense of community, and my favorite – NO harsh chemicals!

Embodiment refers to the connection between the mind and body during swimming. In open water, swimmers often experience a heightened sense of being in tune with their body, as they navigate the natural environment. This embodiment can promote a sense of mindfulness and present-moment awareness, which are beneficial for mental health.

Furthermore, open water swimming provides an opportunity for swimmers to connect with nature and experience a sense of awe and wonder. Being surrounded by the beauty of nature can have a calming and uplifting effect on the mind, reducing stress and promoting a sense of well-being.

Another significant benefit of open water swimming is the sense of community it fosters. Many open water swimming events and groups such as triathlons, long distance swim races, channel swimming all provide a supportive and inclusive environment for swimmers of all levels. This sense of belonging and camaraderie can contribute to improved mental health and overall well-being.

Positive Experiences in Open Water Swimming

Engaging in swimming, especially in open water, can lead to positive experiences and teach valuable life lessons.

Many swimmers report feeling a sense of freedom and liberation while swimming in open water. The vastness of the water and the feeling of weightlessness can create a unique and exhilarating experience, boosting mood and overall happiness. It is rarely found in any other exercise.

Moreover, swimming in open water often requires overcoming challenges such as unpredictable currents, waves, and varying weather conditions. This builds resilience, determination, and willpower, which are valuable life skills that can be applied to other areas of life.

Finally, swimming is a social activity that can be enjoyed with friends and loved ones. Creating memories and bonding with others through swimming can strengthen relationships and provide a source of joy and fulfillment.

How to Get Started With Open Water Swimming

When you’re at the lake or by an ocean, there is no reason why you can’t use open water as a workout method. Perhaps you live nearby or you’re on a vacation. All you really need is a pool noodle, kick board and goggles. These items don’t take up much space in your vacation packing either. And you don’t even need the latter two for a great workout. Check out this article for a great swim workout using only a pool noodle.

When you do a swim workout in the lake or ocean make sure you’re not alone. I love going down to the beach early morning while my family is still asleep. But I make sure there is a lifeguard on duty or other people around. I also make sure the beach is all clear and flag is green. I’m a pretty good swimmer but I make sure not to enter ocean water if riptides are present. Even the best swimmers are no match for a riptide lurking beneath calm waters.

For a more intense workout, I use this 30-40 swim workout in the ocean, or lake.

Basic Gear for Open Water Swimming

These are a few of my top swim gear choices for open water swimming and can be used for both leisure and workout swimming:

Bottom Line

Swimming, especially in open water, offers numerous mental health benefits. It reduces stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression, boosts immunity, helps with sleep, increases well-being, and promotes a sense of community.

The release of endorphins during swimming improves mood and overall mental health. Engaging in open water swimming also provides therapeutic benefits such as embodiment and mindful presence.

Swimming teaches valuable life lessons and allows for meaningful social connections. Overall, swimming in open water is an excellent way to maintain both mental and physical health. So why not just dive in!