Mehbooba's Reflection

I truly believe that water has a way of carrying our grief. During one of the most difficult periods of my life, after separating from my ex-husband, a friend took me to the water and told me to let everything out. Standing in the cold water, I cried, screamed, and released so much pain that I had been carrying inside. It felt as though the water gently took some of that sadness away. I came out feeling lighter, calmer, and able to breathe again.

Before 2021, I couldn’t swim and never imagined that one day I would be swimming in rivers and lakes. Learning to swim opened a new world for me, and cold water swimming has become one of the greatest gifts in my life.

Every time I enter the water, I leave behind a little of my stress and worry and return feeling refreshed and renewed. What makes wild swimming so special is the connection with nature—the water around you, the fresh air, the gentle breeze, and the beautiful scents of the natural world. For a moment, everything slows down, and you feel completely present.

Because of what cold water swimming has given me, I encourage everyone to try it safely if they can. For me, it is much more than exercise. It is healing, freedom, and peace. I feel honoured to be part of this film and its Q&A sessions, and I hope my story encourages others to discover the comfort and strength that nature and water can bring.