Swimming & the Stream

The Shenxi runs right past the door. Where it is shallow you can paddle, fish or take out a kayak; if you want to swim, choose a calm spot with an adult watching.

Getting used to the water

Check the temperature with your hands and feet first and ease in. Put your face in the water and breathe out through your mouth, then lift your head and breathe in through your mouth — swimming breathes through the mouth, not the nose.

Practise standing in shallow water: press your palms down and the water pushes your upper body up, so your head comes out naturally. Step lightly rather than stamping.

Floating

The flatter your body, the more easily you float; a raised head and a bent body make you sink. That is why swimmers keep their bodies long and level in the water.

Safety

Do not go in after rain or when the stream is rising — mountain water comes up fast. Children must be with an adult and should wear a life jacket; if you cannot swim, stay in the shallows.

Please watch the small fish and shrimp rather than catching them with stones or bamboo.