I tried cold-water immersion – and was vigorously courted by a catfish

‘The catfish is brushing against me like a cat … Does he want a pat?’ Photograph: Thorpeland Photography/Getty Images

This summer, after a bad run of migraines and perplexing ill-health, I decided to try cold-water immersion. And yes, it’s possible I had listened to a few too many podcasts on the topic but, also, I was looking for an achievable goal.

The property I live on in northern New South Wales is bordered by a creek, which, despite being summer, stays remarkably cool. There is a water hole, and I’m hopeful that if I create the cold-water immersion habit in warmer weather I can move into the cooler months. I’m planning ahead.