Join Us for a Blue Mind Swim in Fort William!
Do you love swimming in the open water or dipping in the river? Do you want to meet other like-minded swimmers and enjoy some cake afterwards? Then you should join us for a Blue Mind Swim in Fort William!
What are Blue Mind Swims?
Blue Mind Swims are monthly social events that we organise in partnership with Mountain Yoga Kinlochleven, who shares our passion for outdoor adventures. Everyone is invited to join us for a dip in the Loch and share some cake after. It’s FREE to join us, just bring a mug of tea for after.
Our Penny read about the concept of Blue Mind and shared her thoughts about developing a Community Swim with Nicky and Nix. With her STA Open Water Swim Coach certification and contacts from her own business, Mountain Yoga Kinlochleven, coupled with the sporty folk from Off Beat Bikes then the monthly swims for everyone were developed.
Blue Mind is the idea that being on, in or near the water is good for our wellbeing, both physically and mentally. The term was coined by marine biologist and author Wallace J. Nichols, who wrote a book called Blue Mind: The Surprising Science That Shows How Being Near, In, On, or Under Water Can Make You Happier, Healthier, More Connected, and Better at What You Do. According to Nichols, water can help us relax, focus, heal, create and connect with ourselves and others.
Penny suggested that we start the Blue Mind Swims to share love for swimming with the community. We believe that swimming in the open water is not only fun and exhilarating, but also therapeutic and empowering. We want to share this experience with you and show you how swimming can improve your mood, reduce your stress, boost your creativity and enhance your social bonds.
In July 2023 we celebrated a whole year of Blue Mind Swims and we’ve loved every Blue Mind Swim! We hope to see you at the next meet.
Where and When are the Blue Mind Swims?
The Blue Mind Swims take place at the West End Car Park on Achintore Road in Fort William , where there is a stoney beach and a stunning view of Loch Linnhe and the mountains. The swims are currently held once a month on a Saturday at 9 am. Check out our Facebook events for the next swim.
The swims are free to join just bring your own equipment! All you need is a swimsuit, towel something for your feet, a hot drink and warm clothes for after. Most swimmers that join will wear some combination of swimsuit/wetsuits, goggles, hats, booties, gloves, safety buoys and dryrobes. We sell some of these items in our shop on High Street, so feel free to pop in and check them out.
You bring a hot drink, we’ll bring the cake
The swims are open to anyone who wants to dip, paddle or swim and chat with other swimmers but please be aware of our Blue Mind Swim Responsibility Statement.
Blue Mind Meet Up operate all swimming activity under the OSS Swim Responsibility Statement guidelines. The Blue Mind Meet Up group is purely a network of people interested in swimming with others at entirely their own risk. We aim to be an open and welcoming group for swimmers of all abilities promoting the health benefits of open water swimming.
Off Beat Bikes and Mountain Yoga Kinlochleven are not able to assume legal responsibility to swimmers or others joining the Blue Mind Meet Ups. While we are always keen to share our passion for outdoor swimming, all swimmers must be solely responsible for making their own assessment as to the risks involved in any swim. Blue Mind Meet Ups are not guided events nor led or supervised by qualified individuals and no insurance is in place. The decision to participate in any swim must therefore be taken individually; If you are in any doubt about the safety of a swim or your ability to complete it, you should not take part.
Why Should You Join Us?
We think that there are many reasons why you should join us for a Blue Mind Swim, but here are some of the main ones:
- You will have fun and feel alive. Swimming in the open water is an exhilarating activity that will make you smile and laugh. You will also feel a sense of achievement and pride after completing a swim.
- You will improve your health and fitness. Swimming is a great exercise that works your whole body and improves your cardiovascular system. It also burns calories and helps you maintain a healthy weight.
- You will relax and recharge. Swimming in the open water can help you calm your mind and release tension from your body. It can also stimulate your senses and increase your awareness of the present moment.
- You will boost your creativity and productivity. Swimming in the open water can spark new ideas and insights in your brain. It can also enhance your memory and concentration skills.
- You will connect with nature and yourself. Swimming in the open water can help you appreciate the beauty and wonder of nature. It can also help you discover new aspects of yourself and your potential.
- You will make new friends and strengthen existing ones. Swimming in the open water can help you meet new people who share your interests and values. It can also help you bond with your existing friends over a shared experience.
How Can You Join Us?
If you are interested in joining us for a Blue Mind Swim, here are some steps you can take:
- Visit our website or follow us on Facebook or Instagram to find out more about us and our events.
- Prepare your equipment and clothing for the swim. Don’t forget to bring a hot drink and a towel with you.
- Arrive at the West End Car Park on Achintore Road in Fort William at least 10 minutes before the start of the swim. Look for our Off Beat Bikes Van
- Meet and greet other swimmers and our friendly staff. We are all swimmers ourselves and we love to chat and share tips and stories.
- Enjoy the swim at your own pace and comfort level. You can dip, paddle or swim as much or as little as you want. There is no pressure or competition, only support and encouragement.
- Warm up and dry off after the swim. Enjoy some cake and hot drink with us and other swimmers. Share your feedback and suggestions with us. We always love to hear from you.
We hope to see you soon at one of our Blue Mind Swims! We are sure that you will have a great time and feel the benefits of being on, in or near the water.