After The Cold Rush
A story by Lily Forbes, Simone Meissl & Lily Green
Swimming in open lakes, rivers and seas has seen a huge rise in popularity throughout recent years. Regardless of the season, many swimmers are embracing the cold water for its healing properties, as well as the sense of community found through regular swims.
Frequent swimmers swear by the benefits of cold water on their physical, mental and spiritual well being, sharing feelings of clarity and connection once coming out of the water. With benefits including improved circulation, boosted immune system and even increased libido, many people have become addicted to the rush felt after an icy cold dip. In a year where the world was instructed to Stay at Home, could the benefits of cold water swimming help connect us back to our pre-pandemic minds?
This series, alongside quotes from swimmers, tells the story of women who swim in open water year-round in the UK, braving cold temperatures to bring presence to the pressure of 24/7 lives.
A big thank you to the Margate Mermaid, Juliet Turnbull, Malise Rosbech, Caroline Silber, Lotte O’Neill and many other swimmers who shared their stories and invited us into the community with open arms.
Creative credits
Simone Meissl: Art Direction and Photography, Instagram: @meisslsimone. Lily Green: Art Direction and Photography, Instagram: @lilyvgreen. Lily Forbes: Art Direction, Copy, Production, Instagram: @lilyaforbes
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