Kylie - a Water Warrior
In Kylie’s words:
“My name is Kylie, and I am a Metaqua convert.
I had previously been a competent and confident lap swimmer but since moving to Stanthorpe in 2012, I had barely been in the pool. I always seemed to find an excuse such as too busy, too tired, too cold etc.
In January 2023 my life completely changed after I saw a post from Amanda Rudge about learning the Metaqua swim program.
I was probably at my lowest point mentally, physically, and emotionally and was really looking for a new kickstart to my life. I identify as a deaf/blind person, had multiple medical issues I was trying to resolve, several physical issues such as back, knee, shoulder pain, was having trouble socially and emotionally after the 2019 bushfires, and was suffering from compassion fatigue from being a full-time wildlife carer.
After my first lesson with Amanda, I was instantly hooked. I found myself not only keen to do one lesson a week, but two and then three. In Winter, we simply packed our bags and went to the heated pool in Warwick.
Over the past 11 months, I have seen huge improvements in my physical, mental, and emotional health. I have become more social and talkative, have so much more confidence now to try new things and to meet new people, and I have started up new activities and sports such as bike riding and kayaking. Most importantly I have learnt to have "me" time, and to have a much better work and life balance and learnt to enjoy new things.
I have so much to be thankful and grateful for, and it all started with the Metaqua class and Amanda’s unwavering encouragement, support, and motivation.
The Water Warrior Project is a joint project of inspiration between Amanda, Metaqua Instructor from @swimminginthefield, and Lara Flanagan, Photographer from @mynotesfrom
