COLD, SALT WATER SWIMMING

After 5 years in hot and humid Houston, I was so excited to know I could swim in the cold, salt water of South Africa. It's winter here now and the ocean temperature is 55-58 degrees. KalkBay has a beautiful tidal pool named Dalebrook and I swim here everyday. It is what I most look forward to because the health benefits are felt immediately- my mind is calm, my body relaxed and my stress level is zero. While I am in the cold water I feel euphoric. Experts say cold water immersion can decrease inflammation, spike dopamine, improve mood,boost injury recovery, help remedy aches and pains and reduce stress.The pool has a huge view towards mountains and small coastal towns and the small fishing harbor. Waves break over the side at high tide so I get all the excitement of waves without the tumbling.