 |
| The sun is rising below a bank of cloud over the back of St Mary's. Just a glimmer of sunshine at this time of year is encouraging. Many's the morning I've cycled head on into driving rain with the darkest of skies offering no improvement in sight. These grey, bleak starts have me wondering what on earth I'm doing. |
 |
| But here's what keeps me coming. This beautiful stretch of white sand is my very own playground at this time of day. The bay is just short enough for a quick morning swim, but most importantly, I'm usually the only one here at the crack of dawn. An occasional jet boat is the only other sign of life giving me an extra workout as I battle against the impact of the following wash. The two things that will stop me swimming are ill health and wild seas. As I swim alone, it's important that I don't take any risks which might also put others at risk if they had to come looking for me. My husband is my weather adviser as he goes out early every morning before me and on his return tells me if it's too wild to swim or at least which beach I ought to go to to keep out of the worst of the wind/swell. In addition I know that if I can't cycle because the wind is too strong, then I ought not to be out in the water either. And finally my advice to any other solitary sea swimmer is to swim parallel to the beach so that you are always within striking distance of the shore. A sudden bout of cramp can be disabling, and an unexpected seal encounter can also take your breath away - any of which can compromise even the strongest of swimmers. Swim safe! |
 |
Photo courtesy of Chris Billington
This is the Jubilee pool in Penzance. It was here about 10 years ago that I glimpsed an inspirational sight which was the catalyst for the sea swimming I do now. I'd been walking along the promenade when I heard laughter followed by men's voices coming from the changing booths opposite. I snuck around the gates and there in the late afternoon light I saw about half a dozen old guys standing drying themselves off. These weren't youngsters in training for an event. This was a jovial meet up for a dip in this sea water pool, probably a regular event throughout the season. What struck me was not the white or sparse hair, or the elderly stance of these guys, no what really got my attention was their amazing ruddy complexion. Arms, legs, faces, everything was red, glowing and they, every single one of them, looked so healthy. Coupled with their laughter, the whole scene etched itself into my memory bank. I instantly knew that I wanted to experience this joie de vivre too. I didn't manage to motivate myself immediately, but life finally conspired to get me into the sea swimming groove. For the past couple of years I've swum every day, sometimes even twice a day, if the tide was right and work permitted. These are solitary events; my time to be alone in nature, but more than that; my time to talk to my Maker. This morning commune gives me a clean slate; it's where I share my thoughts, give my thanks and emerge from the salty water, cleansed, restored, rebalanced.
|
 |
| With goggles and swim cap at the ready, the aim of this snap is to show you the difference in skin colour from before... |
 |
...to after. This ruddy, glowing complexion is the trophy of a good swim. And I know it's not just my skin that is benefiting - heart, lungs, immune system are all under siege for the duration and my metabolism is boosted for the rest of the day. I know of no better workout, and it's free! My swimsuit is just that - not a shortie wetsuit, but a nylon Speedo-type suit offering no warmth, but with the bonus of thigh coverage which is merely for vanity's sake. I love the afterglow - it gives me such a rush.  And that's it, mission accomplished! I pile on the layers of thermal socks, fleece lined trousers, cashmere polo neck, fur lined jacket, beanie hat, thermal gloves and furry boots. I jump onto my faithful steed for the dash home to eat, shower and dress for work. Ah yes, dressing for work... Here's one final outfit that didn't make the cut this summer, although I don't know why as it's one of my favourites as I look through my album now. Dress: H&M. Cardi: Boden (customised with buttons by Stockwell Ceramics). Necklace: Debenhams. Shoes: TK Maxx. Watch and rings: charity shop.        I'd like to wish you all a very happy and peaceful New Year and hope that you'll keep in touch throughout 2016 |
