Most people agree that 2020 has presented hurdles that are both unprecedented and challenging.
A group of women in the Northern Illawarra and beyond have challenged themselves to take on new opportunities.
One of those is the Winter Wonder Women swim group.
The initial aim was to make connections and exercise, but the women have found so much more.
They started swimming in winter 2020, when it was too cold for many residents.
“Swimming is, in fact, one of the best activities everyone can undertake in winter. The healing powers are immense,” Cassandra Cahill says.
“There are many people swimming in winter, men’s groups in particular, but we wanted a women’s group, and we wanted to enjoy the many wonderful tidal pools which are a feature of our beautiful coast.
And we wanted to be outside, yet together, and supportive in difficult times when we can easily be drawn apart as a sacrifice to the virus.
“Most often we swim on Sundays, not too early and we relax after for coffee or a general meet-up.
Our ladies are multi-generational, one family sports three generations, and some travel from quite far, but above all we have fun… occasionally coffee, even Macedonian hot shots.
“A lot of ladies have even bought new gear that is also therapeutic (lycra suits) and, of course, we ‘rug-up’ afterwards.
We ignore any body image issues because it is just us, and we are nonjudgemental.
We just enjoy being together.” Some have even lost weight in their enjoyment of the exercise, but there is no competition – some women do four laps, others do 20.
There is a lot of conversation and laughing.
The Winter Wonder Women swim at many of the ocean pools along our coast.
“We love all the pools so we don’t just stick to one but enjoy them all,” Cassandra says.
“ They each have their own personality and beautiful environment. It is partly this we enjoy too. We live next to, and around, such beauty, it is great to feel a part of it with our group.”
Swimming is one of the best activities for body and mind. It may strengthen the immune system, keep you fit, boost your mood, alleviate stress and help you to relax.
“We have made good friends, enjoy plenty of laughter and that can’t be a bad thing,” Cassandra says.
“The group will go on during summer. We are having way too much fun to stop. We have a Facebook page and Instagram “Winter Wonder Women” and hope many more will join us in the future.”
They are all to be congratulated for their innovative approach in a very confronting time.
