Why Does Ocean Swimming Feel So Good?

As any ocean swimmer can tell you, swimming in the ocean makes you feel good! No matter how your mood or motivation is when you go in, you are almost guaranteed to feel better when you get out. Although it's not entirely clear why this happens, there are some good theories about what makes ocean swimming such a pleasing experience.

Probably the most obvious idea relates to the ocean being a natural environment, and most people find being in nature calming and rejuvenating. The sound of the waves, the salty smell of the sea air, and the sensation of water against your skin can all contribute to a sense of relaxation and well-being. The vastness of the ocean can evoke feelings of awe and wonder, especially if you see turtles, dolphins, stingrays or any other (friendly) ocean wildlife.  When you add in Vitamin D exposure, which is believed to boost mood and well-being, you have a perfect storm of natural influences working in your favour.

Swimming in the ocean also engages multiple senses simultaneously. You can feel the water on your skin, hear the soothing sounds of the waves, and see the vast expanse of water and sky. This sensory experience can be deeply pleasurable and immersive. For those who enjoy colder water immersion, this can further evoke your senses and there is research to suggest that colder water can also improve general mood and well being as well as decreasing anxiety and depression. Saltwater has traditionally been known to have therapeutic effects, natural healing properties and is believed to be good for your skin and respiratory system.

Ocean swimming also offers a sense of adventure and exploration. Whether you are staying close to shore or going further out and navigating waves and swell, or swimming around headlands or across reefs, this unpredictability and excitement of pushing your boundaries can be exhilarating and positively challenging. Also swimming in the ocean means you have to step out of your daily life for a short period and leave behind your phone and connection to your work day or regular routine. This is always a great circuit break and allows you to unwind and recharge, knowing you are out of reach of everyday life for just a while.

Many ocean swimmers find the experience to be very meditative as they focus on breathing and sighting where they are headed to. Needing to have an awareness of your environment focuses your senses only on what you are doing, rather than being distracted by the many thoughts that can clutter your mind when on land and going about your everyday life.

Finally, there is the all important sense of community. Swimming in the ocean can be a social activity if you swim with friends or in a group. Whether it's sharing the fun of the waves, spotting dolphins or stopping to chat at the halfway point, swimming in a group improves the experience considerably. This generally extends to a post swim conversation and/or coffee, which most would agree is as enjoyable as the swim.  Ocean swimming groups are generally an eclectic mix of people who you might not normally meet or socialise with in your everyday life. Such friendships, based on a common interest, can be enriching and broaden your horizons in a way your other friendship may not.