The benefits of swimming

Not many people know that I live with abnormal spinal curvature in my lower back, called scoliosis.

This condition has given me a lot of trouble since my childhood.

Over the years, I have experienced a lot of back pain, bulging disc and muscles spasms.

Moving to Australia has certainly helped me in many ways, as I have better access to alternative medicine treatments such as acupuncture, and chiropractic care that serve me well.

In general, people who suffer from any joint malformation/ injuries have a hard time maintaining their fitness, for a simple reason – exercising hurts.

Their options are limited to sophisticated exercise plans such as Pilates, Yoga, or they can choose swimming.

I found that I can still be physically active and stay fit despite my limitations when I made swimming my life passion! I also found that an abundant diet in substances that support joint and bone health is essential. I make sure I have a lot of calcium and gelatin in my diet. Hence, I like to have my chicken stock or a bone broth! (See the recipe).

I swim daily in summer and 2-3 times a week during the winter months in my outdoor pool. I used to run a lot but I found that this type of exercise impacts on my spinal joints negatively, so I leave this only for very special occasions, such as this beach chase with my son!

When you experience any chronic condition, changing your mindset is essential too. This is a topic for another blog post.

For now, I would love to share with you the benefits of swimming:

• It improves your posture, balance and flexibility

• Strengthens and tones nearly all the muscles in your body

• It works your body without having a harsh impact on your skeletal system, thus lowering your risk of injury.

• It improves your cardiovascular health

• It increases your longevity

• It helps control your appetite

• It speeds up your metabolism

• It lowers your stress

• It causes your body to release endorphins – hormones, that make you feel happier!

• It boost your confidence and self discipline when made a routine

Hey, did you know that you are only one swim away from a good mood? Let’s go for a swim!

Image by Sport the library, electronic source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:231000_-_Swimming_Daniel_Bell_reflections_action_-_3b_-_2000_Sydney_event_photo.jpg