My Loch Ken...
"It’s 6:30am and, armed with my tow float, I take a deep breath and plunge into the ice cold loch. Frost twinkles as the water laps all around as I swim. I feel clarity and calm. It’s stunning, so peaceful, yet 100% invigorating."
Suzy enjoys the invigorating benefits of a cold water dip.
For the last two years, Loch Ken trustee Suzy Rook has been cold water swimming daily and is an advocate for the tremendous mental health benefits.
Cold water therapy has been shown to release endorphins in the body, helping to boost mood and relieve pain.
Having lived in Crossmichael since the age of nine, Loch Ken and its wonderful environment is very close to Suzy’s heart. It is also of special significance as her late friend has their ashes scattered here.
After leaving in 2005 for University and to represent Scotland at rugby, the mum of three returned to Crossmichael in 2016 where she lives with her family. Suzy has played rugby for 16 years, achieving International honours and caps for Scotland, three 'Player of the League' trophies and having competed in over 400 games worldwide. Suzy is now a social worker, specialising in through-care for high risk offenders, and was named Scotland’s Social Worker of the Year in 2022.
Also in 2022, Suzy and her friend Emma co-founded the female open water swimming group Swim Queens, empowering women to try cold water swimming. The group now has over 400 members and Suzy encourages anyone thinking about taking the plunge to reach out via Facebook @Swim Queens est 2022.
“I Just love the coldness at this time of year!" says Suzy. "If you think you might fancy it, Swim Queens have a specific group to help newcomers. It’s private and a community full of fun and support.“
Suzy on patrol with Loch Ken Ranger, Leanne Pumpr
Suzy first got involved with the Loch Ken Trust when the Swim Queens helped with a safe open water swimming demonstration at the Trust’s family water safety event back in July.
Water safety is at the forefront of the Swim Queens group, who ensure all members use tow floats and swim in groups. They also organise regular safe open water swimming workshops.
“Water safety is very important to me, and I am very passionate about Loch Ken, so applying to become a trustee was an easy decision for me.
"It has been great to work with the Loch Ken Trust and ranger service towards the goals of the Loch Ken Plan. Loch Ken will always be home to me and I am keen to help protect and cherish Loch Ken for my children and the generations to come.”
Cold water therapy has been shown to release endorphins in the body, helping to boost mood and relieve pain.
Volunteer Ranger Scheme
Later this year, Loch Ken Ranger Service will be launching its Volunteer Ranger Scheme - read more about it here. If you may be interested in getting involved, please get in touch at LKToffice@protonmail.com