Meet Sheila: How open water Swimming helps her body and mind

There’s nothing quite like swimming outdoors in Scotland. From beautiful lochs to coastal beaches, wild swimming – or open water swimming – can be a way to experience nature, movement and social connection simultaneously.

Whether you’re taking a quick dip or planning a longer excursion, Scotland has something to offer and not always as far away as you may think. We caught up with Sheila Penny, a 55-year-old mum of one, full-time nanny and enthusiastic nature lover, who shares with us her recent passion for outdoor swimming.

What inspired you to take up open water swimming later in life?

I first discovered outdoor swimming, like a lot of people during the COVID-19 lockdown.  We stay near the beautiful Mugdock Country Park in East Dunbartonshire, and were out for a walk and someone suggested a swim and I was hooked from there on in.

Were you nervous about your first outdoor swim? What was that experience like?

Yes, I was very nervous because I didn’t learn to swim properly until I was 39 years old. So, my approach was to swim parallel to the shore, with some lochs you don’t know how deep the drop will be so it’s always best to err on the side of caution and always have someone with you. My friends were so encouraging, and that really helped spur me on. I still feel that high from the first time going into the water, you just feel exhilarated!

What made you think, "I'd like to keep doing this"?

You totally got your comfort zone and so you've done something hard but, you know, you're going to come back to a hot coffee, some chocolate and a warm towel and socks. It’s great for your mental health, you are testing yourself and stretching your boundaries.

You’ve mentioned mental health benefits;  how do you feeling by being by the water?

When I’m feeling worried or have things on my mind swimming helps immensely. I love a walk on the beach because the sound of the waves are so calming.  My only regret is that I didn’t start open water swimming earlier. Because when you go into the sea, it just completely clears your mind. You’re this tiny speck in the water amongst all of this beautiful scenery. Loch Lubnaig or Loch Venachar.

Someone once said:

“You go into the sea or into the water, to lose your mind and find your soul.”

Have you found swimming has helped your strength and fitness?

Yes absolutely, on certain days you can go in and just kind of lie back and relax and enjoy the peace and tranquillity.

On other days, I swim, I pretend I’m in the pool so I count 30 strokes one way and 30 strokes the other way. My husband used to hold my coffee while I swam, but now I’ve convinced him to come into the water. He’s awaiting an operation on his knee, and he has found huge benefits from when he goes in the ocean, he doesn’t feel any pain, the relief from the water lasts for hours afterwards.

What would you say for anybody who thinks they are too old to start a new activity?

Oh, you’re not, I regret not starting it years ago!  It is never too late to start and that it can be a very rewarding experience. By joining local swimming groups you can meet like-minded people and get support and advice from more experienced swimmers. Learn more about Scottish Water’s tips for swimming safely outdoors.