As the Grey River Swimmer, a connection I had formed with the river as a young girl has been rekindled. Nature, in its purest form, has been important throughout my life, and I have found a sense of belonging in the  rhythms if the river. 

A sense of melancholy would arise every year as the weather turned colder, forcing me to retreat from the water. But last winter, a friend's suggestion led me to  continue my river rendezvous even as the temperature plummeted below freezing. The exhilaration I felt was unparalleled and the sense of fulfillment undeniable.  A persistent ache in my back began to ease, allowing me to reclaim a vitality I thought had eluded me, I am after all “a middle aged woman”.
And so, the ritual had begun. Every day, I immersed myself in the embrace of the river, cycling instead of driving, and walking to and from my bike. The steep hill challenged my level of commitment as I pedaled upward, pushing the boundaries of my endurance.

Meetings a long the road with neighbours on the journey added a sense of community, breathing life into the connection I felt with the world around me. In the realm of the river, I became attuned to its nuances—the ever-changing flow, the wandering rocks, and the inquisitive fish that circled my legs. The animals that I encounter on my path have become used to me, unknowingly participating in my revitalisation.

At the onset, recording my experiences was secondary to the pure sensation of the river's touch. Yet, an innate desire to chronicle my experiences eventually led to the birth of an Instagram page. In this virtual realm, a revelation dawned: I was far from alone. A vibrant community of kindred spirits shared my love for cold water swimming, proving that connections can be forged across miles and screens.

With an unyielding tolerance for the cold, I embarked on a journey that reshaped my physical, mental, and emotional landscapes. The metamorphosis was profound—every stroke, every plunge, and every icy shiver breathed life into a new version of myself. Fitter, healthier, and happier, the Grey River Swimmer emerged as more than a moniker—it became a testament to the boundless potential for growth that resides within us all.