If someone had told me that I would be canoeing across Lake Windermere, I wouldn’t have believed them.
The third day was all about water.
We set out and parked up at the side of Lake Windermere and roped two canoes together to make them more stable. Then we were off.
I found it so calming, moving across the still water of the lake. We headed towards one of the small islands in the middle of the lake, all four of us laughing as we tried to gauge how hard or light we had to paddle to ensure an even movement.
We arrived on the island first and took a celebratory selfie. Once on the island, we had a little walk around. It was only small so didn’t take long.
Then we were back in the canoe. We took a longer route round and part way round just floated for a while so we could have a good chat about how the week was going.
Whilst doing this we were lucky enough to have a fly by from some military planes doing some training flights.
Once across the other side, we tied the canoes up on the jetty and found a spot for some lunch and then when everyone was ready we got back in the canoes and headed back towards the van.
I had enjoyed the morning so much. It was so nice to do a physical activity that could be so relaxing at the same time!
In the afternoon we continued with the water theme. We were supplied with a wetsuit and dry robe and then headed to a different lake to do some cold water therapy.
I had no idea what to expect.
Once off the bus we stood in a circle and did some deep breathing. Then we slowly started walking into the lake continuing with the breathing.
I had never felt cold like it. I suppose I should have expected it, given that it was the middle of November.
Once we had got to waist deep, we stood in a circle again and then whilst controlling our breathing we all dipped under so that the water was above our shoulders and hitting our vagus nerve.
I started having a little swim and then agreed to dunk my head under. It felt invigorating.
The views were incredible and it really was good for the soul. Being in the water, surrounded by nature with a group of amazing people was definitely a highlight of my week.
We stayed in the water for about 15 minutes and then got out to avoid anyone getting too cold. Then it was back on the bus so we could get back to the hostel and get warmed up!
I had found my new favourite hobby! I decided there and then that this was something I was going to continue with as it made me feel so good after. By the end of the week I had already ordered a wetsuit, wet shoes and a dry robe!
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Life after anxiety 