2026 Intentions for Swim the Lochs | Community, Connection & Wild Swimventures

As we step into 2026, I’ve taken some time to reflect on what truly matters to me and Swim the Lochs. Beyond dates in the diary and time in the water, this year is going to be all about returning to the heart of why Swim the Lochs exists at all: people, place and presence.

My intentions for 2026 are rooted in community, genuine connection and creating a safe and welcoming space where you can step away from the noise of everyday life – even if just for an hour or two – and reconnect with yourself through nature.

Community First
At the core of Swim the Lochs is community. Not just swimming alongside others, but sharing moments, conversations and quiet encouragement in the outdoors. In 2026, I’m committed to nurturing a community where everyone feels seen, supported and welcome, whether it’s your first cold-water dip or your fiftieth swimventure.

Small groups will remain central to everything I offer. They allow space for real connection, gentle guidance and the feeling that you belong, just as you are.

Connection – to Nature, to Others, to Yourself
Our lochs, rivers and coastlines offer more than beautiful backdrops. They invite us to slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect. Swim the Lochs swimventures are designed to create connection on multiple levels:

Connection with nature through wild, immersive swimming experiences

Connection with others in a supportive, like-minded group

Connection with yourself, your body and your breath

This is about authenticity – no pressure, no performance, just showing up and being present.

Swimventures on Your Doorstep
You don’t always need to travel far to find adventure. One of my key intentions for 2026 is to continue exploring locally, celebrating the wild places right on our doorstep. These familiar landscapes hold incredible power when experienced slowly and intentionally.

By keeping swimventures close to home, we reduce barriers, support local environments and remind ourselves that adventure and escape can exist within reach of everyday life.

Time for You: Stepping Away from Responsibility
Modern life is busy, demanding and often overwhelming. Swim the Lochs experiences are intentionally designed to offer you permission to step away from responsibilities, expectations and constant decision-making.

Even a short swimventure can create space for clarity, calm and headspace. Time in cold water, surrounded by nature, helps reset the nervous system and brings you back to the present moment. This is time that’s just for you.

Nurture in Nature
Nature has an incredible ability to heal, ground and restore. In 2026, Swim the Lochs will continue to focus on nurture in nature with gentle encouragement, safety-led guidance and experiences that prioritise wellbeing over achievement.

This means calm, supportive swim environments, safety-first planning and local knowledge and a pace that allows everyone to feel comfortable and confident.

Safe Spaces and Genuine Experiences
Every Swim the Lochs event is a safe space both physically and emotionally. A place where comparison is left behind and enjoyment takes the lead. Where laughter, quiet moments and shared warmth after a swim are just as important as the water itself.

I’m deeply committed to keeping Swim the Lochs genuine and authentic in 2026. No trends, no pressure – just honest experiences rooted in care, connection and respect for the outdoors.

Happiness, One Swim at a Time
Ultimately, my intention for Swim the Lochs in 2026 is simple: to support your happiness. The kind that comes from fresh air, cold water, kind company and feeling part of something meaningful.

Whether you join for a single dip or a full swimventure, my hope is that you leave feeling lighter, calmer and more connected – carrying a little piece of that experience back into everyday life.

Here’s to a year of community, connection and unforgettable swimventures – right here, on our doorstep.

Don't forget to check out my forthcoming events here; https://swimthelochs.co.uk/collections/outdoor-swimming-events