I dip my toes into the edge of the pool. The water is warm, but not too warm. The Kinsmen Aquatic Complex is recreational pool designed for all users – not just us lane swimmers.
A quick glance at the oversized swim clock tells me it’s 12:20 pm – my usual swim time. I am so fortunate that this facility is only a block and a half from work. Sneaking in a swim over my lunch break is something I try to do at least three times a week.
Today is like most days. I don’t really feel like doing this. The thought of doing 1,500 meters seems insurmountable. Sure, I’ve made this part of my routine, and I trudged over here with my black Samsonite pannier, converted to a swim bag, thrown over my shoulder. Quick change and shower – now what?
I take a few deep breaths as I slide my torso into the water, my toes touching the bottom. Remember, I tell myself, you’ve done this hundreds of times before. All you need to do is the first two hundred meters. These are the mind games I play to get going. Past experience has shown me that I never stop at two hundred meters. By then, I’ll have found a rhythm and be ready move onto the next set. I’ve got this.
With all the resolve I can muster in that moment, I push off the wall and methodically begin my freestyle. I always start breathing to the right side – it’s not my dominant side. Save the best for last, as the saying goes. Before I know it, I am at the far end of the pool. A quick flip turn, and I’m on my way back. Better than expected – I focus on my technique.
Then the magic starts to happen. Instead of just counting strokes, my mind begins to wander. But this isn’t my normal “clear the morning clutter” kind of wandering. It’s a sense of freedom where I feel invincible. I’m no longer wrestling against myself trying to stay buoyant. I’m gliding on the surface, with everything in sync, like suspended animation.
Before I know, it’s over. This was not a workout not in the typical sense. Sure, there are physical benefits. Swimming is great for muscular endurance and cardiovascular health. But I’m realizing how beneficial it is for my state of mind, too.
Upon reflection, I had an epiphany. Swimming is an allegory for life.
Life presents us with challenges. Sometimes we don’t want to face them and would rather do anything else. Our minds tell us that these obstacles are too great, with no foreseeable way to navigate though them.
“Getting in the pool” is the first step. Taking a few deep breaths can calm your nerves. Then, you tackle the “first two hundred meters”. It will not be easy – some days will be better than others. The key is to get started. One day, you may will feel like you’re on top of the water rather than fighting it. Don’t worry about the deep end. Just Swim for your Life.