If you’ve ever looked into ‘retreat’ options, you’ve probably noticed that swimming and yoga often go hand in hand. Yoga gives you a chance to ground yourself, stretch, and get some mindfulness in before braving the cold water. Plus, it warms you up and gets your body moving, which helps reduce the risk of injury.
In the past, I’ve attended multi-day swimming and yoga retreats, which are brilliant but can be a big commitment in terms of time and money. That’s why I was excited to try Suzanna and Amy’s Cumbrian Swim and Yoga Day Retreat (Instagram: @swimyogacumbria) which offers a quick reset that is easier on your schedule and your pocket.
Life gets hectic, doesn’t it? Between work, family, and everything in between, we sometimes forget to take care of ourselves. And while it’s not selfish to prioritise your own well-being, it’s easy to let it slide. These day retreats are the perfect way to press pause and give yourself some much-needed care. As one attendee beautifully put it, it’s like “putting your own air mask on before helping others.”
After a week of miserable weather, the sun decided to show up, and I arrived in Ambleside to a glorious clear sky. I couldn’t wait to get started and meet the other attendees. We all had one thing in common: “I’m mentally shattered!” seemed to be the theme of the day.
Starting the Day at Force Café
We kicked things off by meeting at the Force Cafe and Terrace (///chase.regulates.locating), which is a relatively new addition to Ambleside, and it’s fantastic. The terrace overlooks the surrounding fells, which, thanks to the sunshine, were on full display. Suzanna gave us a rundown of the day’s plan and took our brunch orders before we began our yoga session with Amy.
The best part? We did yoga outside. Each mat was pre-set with a blanket, a yoga block, an eye mask, and a Tunnock’s Teacake (yes, really!). I’d never done yoga outdoors before, but I’m definitely a convert now. As we followed Amy’s instructions, I couldn’t help but be transfixed by the clouds above. The session was exactly what I needed after an early start and an hour’s drive. I felt grounded, refreshed, and ready for the rest of the day.
Brunch at Force Cafe was a treat. I went for avocado toast with poached eggs, and it was so good that it deserved its own little video! Some of us sat outside, some inside, the conversation flowed easily and we all got to know each other. Whether local or from further afield, there was a real sense of connection, and that’s all down to Suzanna and Amy’s laid-back, friendly approach. Throughout the day, this sense of community really shone through, whether it was sharing equipment, sunscreen, or just having a laugh together.
The Walk to Loughrigg Tarn
After brunch, we carpooled down to Ambleside for a walk to Loughrigg Tarn. The walk took about an hour and was surprisingly easy, apart from a hefty hill at the start. Suzanna and Amy made sure everyone was comfortable, with one leading the way and the other making sure no one was left behind. The sunny weather added a rare but welcome challenge—reapplying sunscreen and taking in the stunning views was a must!
When we finally arrived at Loughrigg Tarn, I couldn’t help but feel like I was on a country estate. The public paths were superb and there was a relaxed, picnic-in-the-park vibe. We got changed by the water, and I introduced everyone to the Changing Tube (a great conversation starter, as it turned out). I was grateful for all the questions and feedback from my fellow retreaters.
Taking the Plunge: Wild Swimming at Loughrigg Tarn
It was time to get in the water, and Suzanna gave us the all-important safety briefing. She’s all about keeping things safe and making sure everyone feels included. After walking us through where to swim and what to expect, we all headed into the water together, feeling confident and looked after.
The water was a little silty as we entered and we had to navigate a path through the lillies, but after the hot walk, it felt incredible. We swam, floated, laughed, and just enjoyed being in the moment. For me, it was the perfect combination of physical activity and mental relaxation. The stillness of floating, paired with the yoga from earlier, left me feeling completely rejuvenated.
Listening to my body, I headed back to shore before the others, quickly changing back into my walking gear with the help of my trusty Changing Tube. I was glad I’d also packed my lime beanie and après-swim socks to help me warm up further as my hair was wet from floating.
Once everyone else was out and changed we had a mini picnic by the tarn before catching the bus back to Ambleside. As we boarded the 516A, there was a sense of accomplishment and calm among the group. We all shared the feeling “Oooh, I really needed that!”. Strangers had become friends, and everyone seemed re-energised and ready to take on the world again.
If you’ve been on the fence about booking a day retreat like this, my advice is simple: go for it! Whether you’re new to wild swimming or yoga, Suzanna and Amy will make sure the experience is tailored to you. Don’t worry about attending solo. None of us knew each other at the start, and by the end of the day, we were all connected through our shared experience.
Get your retreat kit ready with the Changing Tube, Après Swim Socks, and Classic Beanie.
For more information on upcoming retreats and how to book, visit www.suzannaswims.co.uk.
