Janice, a Water Warrior
In Janice’s words:
“I first heard about the Metaqua Program through the SHE HIVE women's shed, and I thought it sounded interesting so thought I would give it a try, that was 2 years ago.
At the age of 16, I had a bad experience in the water, I couldn't swim properly, was always having trouble with the breathing and I got a very bad cramp in my leg and almost drowned. That put so much fear into my body, from then on if I couldn't touch the bottom with my feet, I would go into a panic and then avoided going into the water.
When I first started Metaqua I had never worn flippers before so that was a whole new experience.
The first lesson was only in the shallow water, so I was ok. The next lesson we had to venture into the deeper water, and I had a panic attack, I couldn't breathe, and Amanda was there to help and guide me through that, I would always hold onto the ropes. At that stage, I was ready to get out of the pool and never go back which would have been a repeat of my younger life cramp experience and am so grateful to Amanda for helping me overcome my fear.
Each week I got a little bit braver, going a little further, then eventually a full lap without having to hold onto ropes. If we had to go without a kickboard, I would start to get a bit nervous.
Onto my second season of Metaqua I am now doing 24 laps and can do breaststroke and other exercises without the kickboard.
I have gained so much water confidence, I am now proud to say I am doing a Water Journey with Amanda, learning how to swim properly, and doing backstroke. I can’t believe how far I have come and being able to enjoy the water without the fear. The water is beautiful, so relaxing, calming, and gentle on the joints. To be able to swim properly was one of my lifetime goals that I have had for a very long time. I am feeling very confident in the water now and by the end of the swim season, who knows how many laps I may swim. I feel that it is the best decision I made to join up and do that 1st Metaqua session with Amanda and continue to turn up to do more.
I would encourage other people to come and give Metaqua a go, it’s so enjoyable. It is a terrible thing to be afraid of deeper water, so I am glad I have overcome my fear. I am feeling so proud of myself and of the progress I am making in my water journey.”
Thanks, Amanda, for your patience and guidance.”
The Water Warrior Project is a joint project of inspiration between Amanda, Metaqua Instructor from @swimminginthefield, and Lara Flanagan, Photographer from My Notes From Gallery, Studio & Store
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