I’m still finding my feet on Substack, and honestly, I’m a bit apprehensive about sharing my voice, my narrative, and my story. I’ve never thought myself a writer but this year I decided I am! So here I go, my first post of many, I hope. Thank you for being here.
My douker mates are special. There’s something extraordinary about our group of folk brought together by a shared love of outdoor swimming. We’ve all gravitated towards each other, drawn by an urge we couldn’t quite name—a need for connection, adventure, or simply something more. And here we are, a group that’s become a kind of lifeline, supporting each other in ways we never expected.
I started wild swimming all year round six years ago, and it has shaped my life in ways I never imagined. Meeting new people, connecting to nature, and finding my purpose— all around lochs, rivers, glens and mountains. Over time, my work and business have aligned with my passion, bringing creativity, storytelling, photography, and video workshops into focus. It all stems from spending time outdoors, slowing down, appreciating the moment, and allowing space for something deeper to emerge.
Yesterday, the hardcore crew braved the snowy roads to visit Reekie Linn, one of the most impressive waterfalls in our area and a favourite of ours. The excitement of snow-covered scenery was tempered by the not-so-thrilling drive, my hands gripping the steering wheel on skitery roads but what better way to spend a snowy January day in Scotland than nipping up the glen for a douk in a waterfall pool?
Navigating the treacherous gorge with friends felt freeing and utterly ridiculous—there’s a real sense of trust and camaraderie in tackling slippery gorges together and surviving to tell the tale. Sitting on the rocks, watching the waterfall in spate, feeling the spray on my face, I was struck by its immense power. Capturing the movement with my phone camera added another layer of connection, turning motion into something creative and meaningful.
And then, the plunge. Douking into the icy, 2-degree water was an instant jolt to the senses, but there’s nothing like it for bonding, building trust, and creating meaning. These shared adventures leave you with a real sense of achievement. Even something as simple as a walk in the local countryside can shift your mood and spark creativity. I’ve found I talk more freely on these journeys, and as time slows, I listen better too.
These moments, whether solo or shared, have become a way to measure time and meaning. Over the past few years, this slower pace has become essential to me. I’ve recently gone through what I can only describe as a dark night of the soul. It felt endless, and at times, I wasn’t sure I’d make it through. But slowly, the broken pieces have started to come together. My true purpose is surfacing, and it’s all about embracing a slower, more intentional life.
This has been a journey of rebirth. I’ve learned to stop rushing, to appreciate the moments, and to simply be here. There were days when I thought clarity would never return, but now I’m finding my voice again. After years of striving, comparing, and juggling, I’m finally living my own life.
Grief, self-doubt, and transformation have shaped me, but so has the support of this wild swimming community. My home, creativity, and purpose are aligning in ways that feel natural and right. Through creating my mindful photography and video workshops, I’ve discovered the importance of being present, finding the “space between thoughts,” and telling stories that reflect where I’ve been and where I’m going.
This isn’t a finished story—it’s an ongoing exploration of growth, resilience, and finding meaning in the mess. It’s about showing up, being present, and embracing the life I’ve always been searching for.
Subscribe to my Substack for an authentic glimpse into life by the loch in beautiful Perthshire. Through videos, photos, and heartfelt stories, I’ll take you on a journey through the seasons—wild swims, hikes, and creative projects that celebrate nature, connection, and the characters who make this place special. Whether it’s crafting rustic wreaths, exploring the beauty of the outdoors, or sharing community tales, my posts offer inspiration, creativity, and a mindful pause in the chaos of everyday life. Join me to slow down, connect, and discover the stories that make life extraordinary.
