Into the Cold: The Unexpected Joy of Wild(ish) Water
Cold water swimming isn’t just a trend — it’s a powerful tonic for the body and mind. Immersion in cool or cold water can boost circulation, reduce inflammation, calm the nervous system, and deliver that clear-headed, post-swim buzz that regulars swear by.
But beyond the physiology, there’s something deeply elemental about stepping into cold water. It brings you right into the present. Breath slows. Mind softens. Muscles wake up. You leave different than you entered.
For those in Derbyshire, the Lido at the New Bath Hotel in Matlock Bath offers a unique way to experience this. It’s one of the UK’s few remaining open-air lidos — naturally fed, unheated, and beautifully set into the limestone valley landscape. There’s history in those waters. And joy.
Whether you’re dipping for five minutes or floating longer, it’s a chance to reconnect — with your body, your breath, and nature’s rhythm.
🏊♀️ Find out more or book your session at the New Bath Hotel Lido (seasonal opening applies)
🌬️ Pre-Swim Nervous System Reset: 2-Minute Warm-Up
Before stepping into cold water, your nervous system benefits from a gentle downshift. This helps reduce the initial cold shock response and prepares your body for the immersion.
Try this simple sequence just before your swim:
1. Soft Standing Breath
Stand tall with soft knees. Breathe in for 4 counts, out for 6. Do this 4–6 times to start lowering your heart rate.
2. Shoulder Rolls & Arm Swings
Mobilise the shoulders and arms with big, slow circles and gentle swings across your chest. Let the breath lead.
3. Foot Taps + Marching
Keep the blood moving with gentle taps, alternating legs, or slow marching on the spot.
This is not about “warming up” like a workout — it’s about helping your body feel safe, supported, and ready to meet the cold.
🧰 First Dip? Here’s What You’ll Need
A short and practical Cold Water Kit List for anyone heading to Matlock Bath Lido (or any natural swim spot):
• 🩱 Swimsuit or lightweight layers (no need for wetsuit unless staying in long)
• 🧦 Neoprene socks or gloves (optional for warmth + grip)
• 🧣 Warm layers for afterwards (hat, hoodie, dry socks)
• 🧺 Towel or changing robe
• ☕ Thermos of tea or warm drink
• 🧠 An open mind — the first 30 seconds are the wildest
Top tip: Focus on your breath as you enter. Don’t rush. Ease in, breathe low, and stay where it feels good.
