Swim or shower in cold water as often as possible #

I'm writing this having just had a dip in the North Sea with a friend. I feel cold but my mind is switched on and ready to take on the tasks of the day ahead. I definitely feel alive. Cold water therapy is essential for anyone with mental health issues, particularly anxiety or depression, and a great way to start the day for anyone else who is fortunate not to have those issues.

I shower once a day. My shower doesn't actually have a cold setting but I resolve myself to get under it before the water heats up. It wakes me up and helps with resilience. But the best cold water therapy is wild swimming - either in the sea or a lake. It's the combination of nature and euphoria that really benefits the mind.

Of course if you're worried about jellyfish or your nearest lake isn't safe enough, a lido can be just as good. But even they are few and far between. Check out the Outdoor Swimming Guide (💵) to find suitable locations near you.