By ANGELA JOSSY

What do you picture when you hear the words “blue“ and “tits” together? Yeah, same. It turns out that’s not far from what it is. Takhoma Bluetits are a group of cold water swimming enthusiasts that started meeting regularly earlier this year to take dips into Puget Sound waters and they would love for you to join them. Weekly Volcano would like to introduce you to local organizer Emilie Claire as she explains this unique recreational opportunity happening right here in Tacoma.

Weekly Volcano: What the heck is Bluetits? Color us intrigued!

Emilie Claire: Bluetits Chill Swimmers is a global community of wild swimmers and cold water enthusiasts. Started in the UK, there are now 100’s of flocks worldwide. All promote inclusivity, safety, and fun in and around open water. Local chapter Takhoma Bluetits was established in January of 2023 and has grown to over 250 flock members.

WV: How often do people meet up to swim in Tacoma and where do they go?

EC: Members post in our private Facebook group and meet up a few times weekly, most often at Jack Hyde Park in Tacoma, as well as other locations. Meets are open to all, and swimming or plunging is not compulsory. We have a standing meet on Sundays at 11:00 a.m. as well as adventures (such as hiking to a waterfall or mountain lake) and after dark full moon and new moon meet ups.

WV: That sounds exciting? Is it like polar bearing, where people plunge into cold water in the morning?

EC: We embrace open water swimming and dipping as a regular practice for health benefits, enjoyment of nature, and social connection. Bluetits is a happy, exuberant, accepting community, and we don’t have a lot of rules or specific procedures. We support each individual’s own experience in the water. Members attend on their own recognizance, and deciding to enter the water is always one’s own decision. 

WV: What else can you tell me about the group?

EC: Anyone is welcome to join in. Our Facebook group is set up by the global Bluetits admin, as a private group which you have to answer some screening questions acknowledging acceptance of the group rules and policies to enter. I invite you to join us anytime!

WV: What do people wear?

EC: Anything they are comfortable in! November 1 kicks off the Bluetits Winter Challenge (thru March).  Members will be swimming and plunging throughout the winter months. Every Sunday we meet at 11 am at Jack Hyde Park, plus New Moon and Full Moon Dips monthly. Bluetits meets always are open to all. The Sunday dip is a good one for new people to come and try it! For more information, find the group on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/takhomabluetits/