Loch Lomond

I am just back from a fantastic night away, yep it was just one night, but it was full of fun, friendship and swimming. Cold water dipping is just so much more exhilarating as the temperatures outside drop. It’s somehow easier to wade into the chilly water when the frost still hangs in the air and the huge blue sky reflects the good feelings evoked by being in the water. Luss campsite is a quiet haven of peace and tranquility, it’s just the best place to unwind. We managed a swim in the afternoon after setting up camp, Ben Lomond stood in the distance overlooking the flat calm loch. The small pebble beach was the perfect place to push off into the water, as we waded in a fish leaped out of the water sending a pool of ripples gently in our direction. It was definitely a catch your breath moment as we submerged and the water enveloped us. As we swam further away from the world, our smiles grew, there are sometimes no words, it’s just a feeling. It makes me smile without effort and without explanation, it’s just sensational. The senses are heightened and the brain completely switches off and focuses on the moment. A fifteen minute swim at 8c in swimsuits followed by a warming soup, leaves you with the warmest glow. We all have to listen to our own body and be sensible, there is no right time to be in the water in the winter, but when you start to feel like you want to stay in longer it’s probably time to get out.

After the swim and a warm, we watched the moon rise in the clear blue sky, we lit a campfire, and sat putting the world to rights and soaking up the awesome scenery. A little bit of self care and Scottish landscape goes a very long way.