As I sit here on the beach looking out over the very cold water of Lake Superior I have one thought... I wonder if I could go for a swim.... It’s cold though. Probably around 40 degrees F. (5 degrees Celsius )
I think I would definitely need a sauna after swimming in that.
Lake Superior water temperature today : https://seatemperature.info/lake-superior-water-temperature.html
Some volcanic rock with lichen. Looking North towards Batchewana Island.
That’s too cold for swimming. I think. I wonder what the experts say. When can I go for a swim ? 50 F ? 60 F ... Are there any benefits to cold water swimming ? Is it good for your brain ? So I googled “Is swimming in Cold Water good for your Brain?
And got the following :
Cold water swimming may protect the brain from degenerative diseases like dementia, researchers from Cambridge University have discovered. In a world first, a "cold-shock" protein has been found in the blood of regular winter swimmers at London's Parliament Hill Lido.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/health-54531075
Believe it or not there are some great benefits to performing cold water swimming!
Here is a brief summary:
- It boosts your immune system
The effects of cold water on the immune system have been studied widely. Cold water helps to boost the white blood cell count because the body is forced to react to changing conditions. Over time, your body becomes better at activating its defences.
- It gives you a natural high
Cold water swimming activates endorphins. This chemical is what the brain produces to make us feel good during activities. Cold water swimming is also a form of exercise, and exercise has been proven to treat depression. Cold water swimming brings us close to the pain barrier. Endorphins are released when we’re in pain, to help us cope with it.
- It improves your circulation
Cold water swimming flushes your veins, arteries, and capillaries. It forces blood to the surface and helps to warm our extremities. Repeated exposure adapts us to the cold.
- It increases your libido
Cold water was traditionally seen to repress sexual urges. The fact is that it increases libido! A dip in some cold water boosts oestrogen and testosterone production, adding an edge to fertility and libido. The benefits of increased libido include more confidence, higher self-esteem, enhanced mood...... and more Sex.
That’s it. I’m going for a swim.... just kidding.
Source: https://www.iprshealth.com/news/8-benefits-of-cold-water-swimming/
Cold Water Swimming Advice :
https://nowca.org/open-water-swimming-safety-in-cold-water/
Source: https://nowca.org/open-water-swimming-safety-in-cold-water/
Disclaimer: Please review Table above .... I think the dangers far outweigh the potential benefits... Please check with your doctor before swimming in cold water. I think the 70s are cold enough for me. This is not Financial or Health Advice. DYR. Please use your Brain.