TAKE THE WILD SWIMMING PLUNGE, IT’S SO RELAXING

IT TOOK years, but I’ve been bitten by the wild swimming bug. I’ve always been sceptical of claims that taking a dip in freezing water can heal body and mind. After all, I hate the cold. But after much persuasion from my friend Natalie, I decided to take the plunge on Brighton beach last weekend, above, and was pleasantly surprised. I’ve written before about my anxiety and feeling as if a million thoughts are racing around my head. I’ve tried mindfulness, breathing exercises and yoga to switch off, but I can’t ever seem to empty my mind.

In the water I was too busy trying not to freeze and keeping afloat to think about anything else. It is honestly the most relaxed I’ve felt in years.

OK, Brighton beach isn’t the wildest of wild swimming spots but there are many ‘proper’ ones across the UK.

Visit outdoorswimmer.com for information on how to get started. One bit of advice, though: never swim alone.