Seabirds Ltd. Brighton
Seabirds Ltd is a Community Interest Company that aims to promote outdoor swimming as a way to improve wellbeing. As keen sea swimmers they recognise the huge benefits of getting in the sea to our well being. Their aim is to introduce the joy of the waves and salted wellbeing to those who need it most. We had a quick chat with Cath, one of the Seabirds, about the organisation.
They facilitate and host courses and events to provide participants with the confidence and knowledge to introduce outdoor swimming into their lives.
Useful links:
What's the community like within the Seabirds?
Very supportive and warm. Lots of happy sea smiles and daft swim related banter shared in the group.
How has the pandemic affected the club?
We can't do our group swims - the last one was International Women's Day and there were over 100 people! Since then we have stuck to the restrictions so currently 2 people only for a swim so we have closed the group to new joiners as we cannot welcome them properly.
What's your best advice for staying fit in lockdown?
Routine and get outside when you can.
How do you stay motivated?
The collective aspect of the group encourages us - seeing others smiley post-swim photos in the group makes you want to get down the beach and do it for yourself.
Do you have any personal sporting or fitness goals?
To improve my crawl so I can breath on both sides!
What are some of the biggest achievements to come out of the club?
The supportive friendships that have developed - really sustained people during lockdown.
What's the best thing about Sea Swimming?
The being in the moment, forgetting about the worries of your day and just feeling joyful.
What's the worst thing about Sea Swimming?
When the waves are too big to get in for days at at time!
What steps do you take to avoid injury?
Careful planning of timings (tides and weather etc) and following specialist advice.
Tell us your top three essential bits of swimming gear/tech?
Shoes for my feet (I can't stand the stones!), Swimsuit and Swim-hat to keep the head warm- thats essential for me.
What's your favourite thing about Brighton & Hove?
The sea!
Tell us five things you love about Sussex?
The Downs, Seven Sisters, The Adur, Cuckmere Haven, and Brighton Beach Box Sauna!