logo
episode-header-image
Apr 2025
16m 39s

The benefits of cold water swimming - re...

Royal College of Anaesthetists
About this episode
In this episode of Anaesthesia on Air,  we are re-publishing an archived episode by Dr Toni Brunning and Dr Lucinda Williams as they discuss clinician wellbeing with a focus on open-water and cold-water swimming,  including the physical and emotional benefits. The podcast explores how cold-water swimming can enhance circulation, boost the immune system, and increase endorphin production, leading to improved physical health. It delves into the mental health advantages, such as reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood, and a sense of accomplishment associated with regular cold-water swimming. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-care among healthcare professionals and how engaging in activities like cold water swimming can contribute to overall well-being.

Related information:

  • CHILL – not for profit organisation who run cold water sessions across the country
  • Outdoor Swimming Society – organisation supporting safe outdoor swimming



Up next
Nov 14
AI and patient information
<div>In this podcast Dr Samantha Black, Dr Maya Sussmann and Chair of Patient voices at RCoA, Jenny Westaway discuss the use and growth of AI large language models and their role in the patient-clinician conversation, and the various risks and opportunities this presents. <br> <b ... Show More
29m 45s
Oct 31
Anaesthesia 2025 podcast - Paediatric regional anaesthesia
<div>In this podcast, recorded at our Anaesthesia 2025 conference in Belfast consultant anaesthetists Dr Branislav (Brano) Mislovic and Dr Will Donaldson discuss developments in paediatric regional anaesthesia, following Brano's address to the conference.<br> <br> Brano and Will ... Show More
25m 31s
Oct 17
Anaesthesia 2025 podcast - Human Factors - Hewitt lectureship
<div>In this podcast, recorded at our Anaesthesia 2025 conference, Professor and Consultant Anaesthetist Helen Higham talks to Dr Paul Southall about her work and career improving the the 'complex and adaptive system' of anaesthesia often given by its shorthand, 'human factors'.  ... Show More
29m 18s
Recommended Episodes
Oct 2023
Chilling Secrets: Unlocking Cold-Water Therapy's Power with Dr. Mark Harper : 1096
<p>In this episode of The Human Upgrade - anesthetist and researcher, Mark Harper, M.D., Ph.D., shares how the power of cold-water practices can treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, arthritis, migraines and other health conditions you may be experiencing.</p><p>Despite all the attent ... Show More
50m 21s
Jan 2025
Cold Exposure for Mental Health
Can cold exposure improve your mental health? In this episode, we explore the science behind cold therapy methods like ice baths, cryotherapy, cold-water swimming, and cold showers. Backed by research, we dive into the physiological and psychological effects of cold exposure, inc ... Show More
1h 36m
Aug 2024
Sauna & Heat Exposure’s Impact on Mental & Physical Health
In this episode, Dr. David Puder and Liam Browning delve into the ancient practice of sauna and modern heat exposure therapies, exploring how they influence both physical and mental health. From boosting cardiovascular and cognitive health to potentially alleviating symptoms of d ... Show More
1h 35m
Jan 2024
Effortless Swimming with Brenton Ford
Summary In this conversation, Matt Butler interviews Brenton Ford, the founder of Effortless Swimming, about his journey in the swimming space and his approach to coaching adult swimmers. They discuss the importance of starting swimming at a young age and the advantages of swimmi ... Show More
1h 6m
Aug 2024
2675: Seasonal Affective Disorder by Becca Shern of Minimal Wellness on Benefits of Physical Activity & Exposure to Daylight
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2675: Becca Shern explores how dietary and lifestyle changes can combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Highlighting the ... Show More
11m 20s
Oct 2024
Let's Get Physiological: The Science of Exercise
In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman are joined by Dr. Joey Munoz to explore the comprehensive benefits of exercise. The scientists discuss the distinctions between aerobic and strength training, highlighting their unique impacts on physical health. They de ... Show More
40m 50s
Jul 2024
Fuelling for Endurance (A Chat w/ Effortless Swimming)
Nick recently was invited on the Effortless Swimming podcast to chat about our new testing equipment in the lab and discuss the practical implications of being able to use data to start dialling in further your fuelling needs when racing and training. To learn more about Effortle ... Show More
56m 53s
Apr 2023
Dr. Rhonda Patrick on Sauna Benefits to Increase Health Span EP 275
<p>I am joined by <a href="https://www.foundmyfitness.com/about-dr-rhonda-patrick" target="_blank">Dr. Rhonda Patrick</a>, a Doctor of Biomedical Science who is a renowned scientist, researcher, public speaker, and researcher. In this episode, Rhonda Patrick and I discuss the inc ... Show More
1h 12m
Aug 2024
Gary Brecka: Biohacking to Live Longer and Feel Better (E284)
<p>Gary Brecka is a renowned human biologist and expert in the science of human performance. With over two decades of experience, Gary has become a leading voice in the world of biohacking, dedicated to optimising health and extending lifespan through science-backed methods.</p>< ... Show More
1h 8m