In all my days of travelling, I’ve completely avoided cold water, preferring instead to swim in heated pools and warm tropical seas. When working as a scuba diver, I refused to forgo my long-sleeve, heavy wetsuit, even in warm Caribbean waters. My experience of swimming in Wales has left me shrieking, hyperventilating, and running quickly ashore for fear of hypothermia- even in summer.

So, in an attempt to push myself out of my comfort zone, I agreed to join a friend at a Fire and Ice experience at Mountain Yoga, just outside Cardiff, knowing that I would be facing my dislike of cold water head-on.

This innovative two-hour program contrasts cold water immersion with a safari sauna and promises heaps of benefits as you learn about breathing techniques, mobility exercises, and how to build your own toolkit for managing stress.

“We’ve had the privilege of collaborating with numerous teams, organisations, and individuals, including the Welsh Rugby Union’s Men’s and Women’s squads, Cardiff Devils, Confused.com, Eton College, and many more. Through our Fire and Ice event, we’ve welcomed over 6,000 participants to our cold-water plunge pool- each one leaving feeling better than when they arrive, equipped with new knowledge and an unforgettable experience,” says Josh Odell, one of three co-founders of Mountain Yoga and an instructor on the Fire and Ice event.

The experience takes places on the side of a valley overlooking stunning rural scenery. It’s a mere five-minute drive off the M4, yet it feels like you’re in the middle of nowhere. It’s safe to say that when we arrive, we weren’t the only ones looking nervous, but the friendly welcome we received quickly quelled our concerns.

The naturally fed plunge pool here is the UK’s largest, supplied by a pure, continuously flowing natural spring. It’s crystal clear and looks out over undulating countryside views, making it the perfect spot for a dip. Next to the pool is a large safari sauna, heated to a delightful 42 degrees. This cosy, warm tent is a stark contrast to the temperature of the pool at 5 degrees, which, despite its picturesque location, was still not a tempting prospect!

“Fire and Ice isn’t just about the cold- it’s about challenge, resilience, and the feeling of being fully alive. Whether you’re an elite athlete or trying it for the first time, you’ll walk away feeling recharged, refreshed, and with a whole new understanding of what your body and mind are capable of. It’s the hottest ticket in town!” says Craig McCormack, another co-founder of Mountain Yoga.

This journey involves several cycles of entering the plunge pool and then warming up in the tent. With each cycle, the experts introduce new guided practices aimed at enhancing comfort in the cold water using breathing techniques, gradually extending the length of time spent in the water. The first dip was intensely cold, and I was relieved to scuttle back into the warmth of the tent. But as the experience unfolded and the time I spent in the water increased, it became transformative, giving me a clarity I hadn’t experienced in years.

Unlike previous attempts at being in cold water, my breathing was calm, I didn’t shiver, and I just felt incredibly tranquil, peaceful, and relaxed. I’ve read so much about the benefits of cold water immersion but never thought they would apply to me- I assumed it was something that only worked for other people. It turns out I was very wrong. I get it now! What a lightbulb moment- I almost feel cheated that I’ve only just realised this simple life hack.

The experience delivered everything it promised. I walked away from the afternoon feeling a foot taller. I felt unstoppable! The skills I took with me are now being used daily. My stress levels have reduced dramatically, and my confidence has increased. If something feels difficult, I remind myself that getting into that cold water felt tough, but I still did it. That feeling of empowerment gives me the resilience to keep going.

“For so many people, this is the first time in years they’ve truly switched off. Fire & Ice isn’t just about the cold or the heat- it’s about learning how to down-regulate, to breathe, to let go of stress that’s been sitting in the body for too long. We guide everyone through the process, step by step, making sure they feel safe, supported, and fully looked after. And when they leave? They’re calmer, lighter, and more relaxed than they’ve felt in a long time,” says Chris Flynn, the third co-founder of Mountain Yoga.

If you want to spring-clean your mind and body, head up Mountain Yoga and see what happens when you push yourself out of your comfort zone. Take a step to redefine the boundaries of your life. I’ll be enjoying a cold dip regularly from now on- no wetsuit allowed. Next stop, Penarth seafront!