Throughout the first few dips, I realised why women were coming - because it was so freeing to run into the ocean with other women and not care how you looked. I personally have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), so my skin breaks out all the time, but I don’t feel self-conscious when I run Sea Gals events because I know that no one cares how I look. Women have always been made to feel like they must wear a cute bikini, have a ‘bikini body’ or fit a certain beauty aesthetic when they go to the beach - we break that expectation.
It has been amazing to see the impact the group has had on the individuals who attend. I see women bring their kids, their teenagers, friends, mums, grandmothers and aunties - and when we have Sea Gals and Sea Pals dips, some bring their loved ones of all genders. It’s so lovely to see people engage in a fun activity that is a little challenging alongside their loved ones.