Skinny dip event now a 'celebration of life'

2 hours ago

Tom MacDougall,North East and Cumbria,

Steffen Peddieand

Gilly Hope,BBC Radio Newcastle

News image — A popular skinny dip to raise money for mental health charities has formed its own community, its organiser says

PA Media A sea of naked bums rush into the North Sea during one of the events. The crowd is made up of all different people of all different body shapes and sizes. On the horizon, a golden sunrise is rising above the steel blue water and reflects off the wet sand. — A popular skinny dip to raise money for mental health charities has formed its own community, its organiser says

A popular skinny dip has grown into its own community and a "celebration of life", its organiser says.

Jax Higginson, 48, from Sunderland, organises the North East Skinny Dip, which was held at Druridge Bay in Northumberland on Sunday morning.

The event, which started 14 years ago, raises money for the mental health charity Mind in Tyneside and Northumberland.

Higginson said participants gather on the beach for a "celebration of life" before bracing themselves for a bare-cheeked plunge.

"I love what the community have done with it. It warms my heart. Everyone has come together and created what the skinny dip is now," she said.

Higginson said she had advised people to arrive before sunrise, with local musicians playing before the chilly charge into the sea at 07:00 BST to mark the autumn equinox.

Founding the event was a "simple decision", she said, adding: "I love being in the water and I love being in the water naked."

Jax Higginson A head-and-shoulders selfie of Jax Higginson, smiling. Behind her are lots of naked people entering the water. This particular year looks especially cold, with a grey sky hanging above and reflecting from puddles of water. — Founder Jax Higginson says the event boosts body confidence and encourages conversations about mental health

"The event has grown so much over the years, and now it's so much more than just the skinny dip - it's an entire experience," she said.

"Everyone has their own personal experience, but it's a celebration of life, nature, and humanity - it's an opportunity to let go and be present."

She said she wanted the event to promote "the positive effect of loving and accepting our bodies".

However, she also wanted to encourage people to talk about their mental health through the event.

"The more we talk about our mental health and illnesses, the more we share our struggles and healing practices, the more we can break the stigma around them and save lives," she said.