Wildbathing
Wild Bathing
Wild Bathing Oban
Nature awaits....
Scotland is calling
As people seek more meaningful experiences, nature breaks have gained momentum and many are shifting focus towards local communities and holidays that have a lighter impact on the land but a stronger impact on our wellbeing & souls. This is what led us to launch 'Wild Bathing Scotland'.
Our passion & knowledge of the beautiful west coast is something we have committed to sharing with others.
Do you want to spend more time in nature, connect with others & retreat to a calmer healthier you?
Join us for;
- Cold water therapy
- Seaweed Baths
- Celtic stories
- Fire-pits
- Forest bathing
- Sunset swims
- Explore the Highlands & Islands
- Professional photographs*
*Photographs documenting your experience are available for you to download, there is no obligation for you to be photographed or to share them publicly.
What is Wild Bathing & what are the benefits?
Spending time in nature can have an immensely positive impact on our health and wellbeing. Here are five benefits of immersing oneself in the natural environment:
- Reduced stress and anxiety - Nature has a calming effect on the mind and body. Exposure to green spaces and natural environments has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, which is the hormone that is released in response to stress.
- Improved mood - Natural environments are known to have a positive impact on a person’s mood. The sounds, smells and sights of nature have a soothing effect on the mind and can help to reduce symptoms of depression.
- Increased physical activity - Being in nature often involves physical activity, such as hiking, swimming or cycling. This can provide a great workout for the body, which can help to improve cardiovascular health, build muscle and burn calories.
- Improved sleep - Exposure to natural light and fresh air can help to regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, which is responsible for regulating sleep patterns. Spending time in nature can help to improve the quality of sleep, leading to increased energy and productivity during the day.
Participants must be able to swim, under 16 require adult participation.
Benefits of cold water therapy
01
Improved Circulation
Cold water swimming can stimulate blood circulation in the body. When exposed to cold water, blood vessels constrict in an effort to conserve heat. As a result, blood is directed towards vital organs and the heart, improving overall circulation. Regular cold water swimming may help enhance cardiovascular function and improve blood flow to muscles and tissues.
02
Enhanced immune system
Cold water exposure has been associated with potential benefits for the immune system. The shock of cold water can trigger an increase in white blood cell production, which helps the body fight infections and diseases. Cold water swimming may also enhance the body's response to inflammation and boost immune system activity, leading to a stronger overall immune response.
03
Mental wellbeing
Cold water swimming has been linked to various mental health benefits. The release of endorphins during and after cold water immersion can promote feelings of well-being, relaxation, and euphoria. It may also help reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. Cold water swimming is often associated with a sense of accomplishment and a natural high that can improve overall mood and mental clarity.
04
Manage stress
Regular exposure to cold water can help build resilience and improve stress management. Cold water swimming challenges the body and mind, requiring individuals to adapt to the extreme conditions. Over time, this can lead to increased resilience, both physically and mentally. Cold water swimming can also serve as a form of controlled stress, helping individuals become more resilient and better equipped to handle everyday stressors.
About us
Jo is a Forest school practitioner with 20 years experience in the forestry & marine environment. STA Level 2 Open Water Safety Leader, Emergency first aid + Forestry module and Cold Water Therapy Diploma.
Previous outdoor experience:
- Surf instructor - Australia
- Snowboard instructor - Highlands
- Outdoor instructor - Central belt
- Forest school sessions - Scotland
- Loch Lomond rescue boat for 5 yrs (Powerboat Level 2)
Jo runs a working family croft locally which is home to her horses who love swimming too.
Jo loves the great outdoors & hosting guests at the croft”s Cosy Cabin "The Rut".
"Wild bathing & immersion in nature has helped me build resilience to cope with many life challenges as well as developing a much stronger immune system" - Jo
"I'd love to share my passion and life changing experiences. Wild bathing can encompass any soul and we want to break down barriers to let anyone access cold water and wild nature at a basic level. My experience & qualifications with first aid & water rescue skills means I can provide a safe experience for others in open water. I love adventures & creating experiences to connect to nature and bring out my inner wild warrior." - Jo
Lauren is a professional photographer with over 20 years experience.
She will be on hand for some of our sessions to capture the experience, the images will be available for download & for your personal use.
Previous relatable experience
- Media studies
- Weddings, Portrait & commercial photography
- Events & press photography
Lauren lives with her family in Oban & runs her business from home as well as a studio in Oban for portrait photography. LJF Photography
"Wild bathing has helped me feel safer & more confident in the sea & has given me a mental & physical boost. Once a week at least feels like a reset. I never go out of my depth but I enjoy the cold water experience and being in the sea for all the benefits it brings.
Jo has helped encourage me into the sea & we are both very keen on nature & how it can heal & ground us.
We are both looking forward to meeting new people & providing them with the experience we have around our shores" - LJ
Sessions
Intro to cold water dip with fire-pit & photo session
An intro to cold water therapy through a guided wild dip & fire-pit* with photos documenting your session.
Duration: 2 hrs
*fire-pit weather dependant
Community Dips with Adventure Oban
Duration: 1hr
Pay what you can /Donation to Adventure Oban
Get started on cold water through our guided social dip sessions.
Wild Bathing are in partnership with Adventure Oban a local not-for-profit, community-led outdoor activity charity supporting equal access for all to Oban’s natural playground.
Retreats 2024 -
3x Nights - Wknd near the beach half board
Walks, Swims, Island Adventures
Life coaching
Kit List
Where possible please bring your own gear, however as part of our work with the community we have been able to collect some gear Inc. Wetsuits. DryRobes & Tow Floats.
KIT LIST
- Swim wear or wetsuit
- Old trainers/wetsuit shoes
- Warm hat
- Warm clothes - layers if possible
- Towel/changing robe
- Kit bag
- Hot drink/flask
- Snack
- Something to stand on - mat/old towel
Arrive swim ready (changing facilities normally available in our mobile quirky cosy horse box)
Guidelines for Swimming
- Never swim alone, or without at least 1 buddy watching.
- Don’t drink alcohol prior to or immediately after swimming.
- Check entry point and exit point.
- Enter the water slowly.
- Make sure you are visible to other swimmers & watercraft.
- Take a tow float if you swim out of your depth.
- If you get into difficulties - float on your back and raise one hand for attention.
- Check weather and tide times.
- Leave your kit in a safe place, out with the reach of the incoming tide.
- Seek medical advice for any known medical conditions before immersion.
- Everyone responds to cold water differently so know your limits and come out before you get too cold.
SAFETY - Risks Associated with Open Water Swimming (Explained in Wild Bathing waiver form)
Further guidance can be found at
www.watersafetyscotland.org.uk
Retreats and corporate events
Team building, birthday, family events, photo shoot
Contact Jo or Lauren for more information.
Get in touch
Want to hear more or book a Wildbathing experience?
Get in touch and we will provide you with all the information you need to make the right step into releasing your wild soul:
