Wild swimming has become a growing trend internationally, with Scotland forming a major hub for the activity. Hardy people combined with the country’s naturally cold and beautiful pools, lochs, waterfalls, and sea create a perfect combination for a strong wild swimming community.
At the University of Stirling, the Wild Swimming Society is about to enter its second year of running. Coxburn Reservoir, a 30-minute walk from campus, provides the perfect base for multiple weekly swims, with trips to more exciting locations taking place throughout the academic year. Brig spoke to Louise, this year’s President of the society, about her experience with the club:
“Wild swimming is one of the few ways I can connect with nature and water while I’m in Stirling,” Louise told us.
“I’ve been in and around water my whole life and I really missed it when at uni, so I tentatively joined the wild swimming club when it started last year, and I’ve not looked back.”
We asked her about the social aspect of the club.
“The community element of wild swimming is so important, particularly for the society. We all have our own reasons for doing it and accept each other regardless. Whether it be for the physical or mental benefits or, like me, for the outdoorsy nature of the hobby, we’re all there to have fun in some chilly water
“The wild swimming community really is wonderful as we all take comfort in the knowledge that we’re all just as mad as each other for doing it in the first place!”
Louise then expanded on the mental and physical benefits that have made wild swimming such a popular hobby.
“It clears my mind, when I’m in the cold water it makes me completely switch off from whatever is going on that day, and I can be completely in the moment.
“It also makes me feel so alive and free. As my shoulders go under the water, nothing else matters at that moment other than the electric feeling of the cold water and the thrill of being so connected with nature.
“There is nothing like the collective feeling that even though we’re all really, really cold, we’re all so happy we decided to make time for a swim that day.”
Recently, the society has changed its joining fee and now offers free membership to encourage as many people as possible to join in on the physical and mental benefits. Taking the plunge may sound daunting, however, nothing quite compares to the feeling after a swim.
A hot chocolate, a fluffy jumper, and good chats with the people around you complete a sunny afternoon with the Wild Swimming Society.
You can find joining information on the Student Union Societies website, or at @stiruni_wildswimming Instagram page.
Image Credit: Wild Swimming Society.
Journalism student at the University of Stirling & BRAW Magazine editor 24/25 and 25/26 🙂
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