The Power of Cold Water Swimming: An Interview with Vivienne from Chill Dorset
Cold water swimming is more than just a physical challenge. It is a powerful reset for the mind and soul. At Chill Dorset, part of Chill Therapy CIC, their mission is to help people harness the transformative effects of cold water immersion.
Through their eight-week courses, they introduce people to the sea in a way that is safe, structured, and empowering. Many participants live with mental health challenges, chronic illness, PTSD, or are recovering from cancer. While cold water can alleviate symptoms, these conditions can also be a barrier to even starting. That is where Chill Dorset comes in.
Led by qualified swim coaches, supported by lifeguards and volunteers, the Chill course teaches everything participants need to know—from understanding tides and currents to building confidence in the water.
I had the pleasure of sitting down with Vivienne, one of the dedicated coaches, to hear how cold water has changed her life and the lives of the people she teaches.
The Transformational Power of Cold Water Swimming
“Cold water completely immerses your body and affects you. Your physiology responds by resetting your mind, helping you let go of stress, and bringing so much enjoyment. I have seen people arrive at the beach with the weight of the world on their shoulders and leave with huge smiles just from getting freezing cold.”
There is something about the immediacy of cold water that forces you into the present moment. The cold shocks your system, breaking the cycle of stress, anxiety, and overthinking.
Vivienne has witnessed this time and time again. Whether it is someone recovering from grief, coping with PTSD, or battling chronic illness, cold water does not just bring relief—it brings resilience. It does not fix everything, but it creates space for healing and helps people realise that they can do hard things.
If You Can Swim in January, You Can Do Anything
One of the most powerful stories Vivienne shared was about a blizzard swim.
“We sheltered in a beach hut, waiting for the right moment, and took swimmers in one by one. When they got out, they could not believe what they had just done. I told them, ‘That is bragging rights forever.’”
I could totally relate to that feeling. It took me back to my first sprint triathlon, the event that set me on my cold water journey. If I could complete that, what else can I do? It opened the gate of possibility.
Vivienne spoke about the shift in confidence she sees in participants. She glows with pride when talking about how people start out nervous, unsure, and even scared, but by the end of the course, they carry themselves differently.
Cold water teaches you something bigger than just swimming. It proves to you that you can push past fear, discomfort, and doubt.
And that feeling stays with you long after you dry off.
The Magic of the Chilly Dippers Community
Vivienne is constantly learning from her participants, adapting the course based on what works best. One of the simplest but most effective changes?
Camping chairs.
Sounds small, right? But by having somewhere to sit together, participants naturally start to chat, connect, and share their experiences.
Vivienne is not a counsellor. She is a swim coach. But the community that forms within Chill Dorset is just as powerful as the water itself.
“People start off nervous, anxious, sometimes even in tears. By the end of the eight weeks, they say, ‘This has given me my life back. I have made great friends.’ And the best bit? Seeing them meeting up for swims after the course, going for beach saunas, staying connected.”
Safety First: How to Swim Smart in Open Water
Before anything else, Chill Dorset prioritises safety.
Vivienne ensures that every participant understands how to enter, exit, and navigate the sea safely.
Top tips for open-water swimming:
✔ Be visible – Wear a bright swimsuit, tow float, and colourful swim cap
✔ Enter the water side-on – Think sumo squatting crab for balance
✔ Swim parallel to the shore – Easy access to exit points if needed
✔ Never swim alone – Always buddy up
“The sea is a tough mistress. It demands respect, but if you learn to work with it, the rewards are endless.”
Open water can change in an instant. A calm sea one minute can turn unpredictable the next. That is why knowledge, preparation, and awareness are essential.
Beyond the Cold: Building Strength, Confidence, and Self-Belief
Cold water swimming is about more than just getting wet.
“You realise, I am resilient. I can do this.”
Each swim pushes past self-doubt.
Each dip rebuilds confidence.
Each moment in the water reminds you that you are stronger than you think.
And once you have conquered the cold, life’s challenges feel a little easier.
Thinking About Giving It a Go?
Chill Dorset offers a welcoming and structured introduction to cold water swimming.
Find out more about their eight-week courses and start your own cold water journey today.
🌊 Ready to take the plunge? 🌊
Watch the Full Interview Here:
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🔗 Find out more about Chill Dorset here
🛍 Want to change quickly and stay warm after your swim? Check out the Changing Tube!
Because the only thing better than a cold swim is warming up fast after!☕🍰
