What a weekly dip in the sea, all year round, does for you

(Almost) every Wednesday morning for two years now, I stand at 7 am with my two 'swimming buddies' Petra ( @liefsvanpeetje ) and Margreet ( @3en60 ), on the Scheveningen coastline, ready to immerse ourselves in the cold seawater. It is not only a refreshing start to the day, but it also has many health benefits and is super fun! If you live near water, why not take a dip? Here are some reasons why this weekly habit will have a positive impact on your life.

Strengthening the immune system

One of the most fascinating benefits of swimming in cold water is the strengthening of the immune system. When your body is exposed to cold water, it stimulates the production of white blood cells. These cells play a crucial role in fighting infections and diseases. Regular cold water swimming can therefore help to make your body stronger and more resistant to colds and other everyday ailments.

Improved circulation

The cold water also has a beneficial effect on the blood circulation. When you dive into the sea, your blood vessels constrict and your heart pumps faster to keep blood flowing through your body. This process ensures that oxygen and nutrients are transported through your body more efficiently. After a dive you often feel refreshed and energetic, as if your entire system has been reset.

Boost for energy levels

There's nothing like the feeling of a cold splash to wake you up. The cold water provides an immediate adrenaline rush, which increases your alertness and makes you more energetic. This energy boost often lasts all day, making you feel more productive and alive. It's a natural alternative to that morning coffee!

Stress reduction and improved mood

Swimming in cold water has a remarkable effect on your mental health. It stimulates the production of endorphins, the so-called happiness hormones. These endorphins help reduce stress and improve your mood. For us, that weekly dive is also a bit meditative; it helps us to leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind and be fully in the moment. In addition, the calming properties of the water can help relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety. The moment you get out of the cold water is the best. You are wide awake, no longer cold and everything seems to have been reset!

In winter we still wear bikinis, but with surfing shoes and gloves . I once cut my feet very badly in the cold.

Healthier skin

Salt water is packed with minerals like magnesium, potassium and iodine, all of which are beneficial for your skin. These minerals help hydrate and repair the skin, and can even help relieve skin problems like eczema and psoriasis. After a swim, our skin often feels softer and healthier.

Weight loss support

A lesser-known benefit of cold water swimming is that it can aid weight loss. When your body is exposed to cold water, it has to work harder to stay warm, leading to an increased metabolism. This means that you burn more calories, even if you are warm again after swimming.

Social advantages

Last but not least, the social aspect of our weekly swimming sessions is perhaps the most important. Swimming with friends strengthens the bond and it is nice to catch up briefly every week. It is a moment of togetherness, grumbling, laughing and encouraging each other. Sharing this experience not only makes it more fun, but also more motivating to keep going, even (or especially) on the coldest mornings. My father is also not averse to a refreshing dip. When he is here, he usually goes into the sea, those moments are seriously priceless!

Rain or shine, -5 or +25 degrees, pitch black or with a beautiful rising sun; We are going! 💛

So why not give it a try?

Whether you go alone or with friends, a regular dip in the sea is super healthy and fun. Put on your bikini, brave the cold water and enjoy the many benefits. You won't regret it and starting now is easy ;-)