Pool Dipping Done Right!

By:  Jonathan Bellingham, 3rd Generation Capon Family Member

Generations of Capon guests have debated the proper method for entering and enjoying the fresh spring water in Capon’s historic pool. While I don’t intend to provide the definitive ruling on “THE” best way, I would like to share my 30 years of near daily dawn dips. While this provided me with plenty of experience to test what works, there are many of you who have joined me who can certainly testify to the results.

To my way of thinking, an understanding of the Capon pool experience begins with an appreciation for its history. This year marks the 250th anniversary of Henry Frye’s “discovering” and subsequent sharing of the spring that set in motion our ability to enjoy it today. Although guests could enjoy the soaking in the Bath Pavilion in the 1850s, it wasn’t until the 1880 season that the pool was completed. Back then, guests had to pay 25 cents to enter what was billed as “the largest mineral pool in the United States”. A 1890s brochure quoted one bather: “A plunge in it has all the stimulating, exhilarating effects of champagne, without the evil effects of that fascinating beverage.” When our grandparents bought the property in 1932, they resurfaced the pool with concrete. As it was patched over the years, members of the Austin family, co-workers and friends started the tradition of etching their initials in the bottom. The kiddie pools were added in the mid to late 1930s. So a part of his daily ritual, our grandfather’s early morning trips to the pool continued up to a week before his passing in 1976.

Swimmers gathered around the Capon pool in 1900

Listen to any conversation about the Capon pool and you will first here mention of its most obvious property- its temperature.  Geologically classified as a warm spring, its 65 degree temperature as it reaches the surface is either described as “refreshing” or “freezing” depending on your constitution.  Here in lies the critical factor which determines the degree of effort guests put into whether the pool is a cherished or avoided part of their Capon stay.   And while 65 might be the starting figure, during the season it can fluctuate as much as 20 degrees depending on the air temperature.   If fact, when the sundeck was built in the early 1990s, the removing of trees had the unintended effect of increasing the average temperature of the pool. (So it has been “heated” over the years!)

All this explanation provides insight into the method behind the madness of this quirky ritual.  For you see, it is only by taking advantage of this lower than normal aquatic condition, that one can receive the full benefit of its restorative effects.  So, patient reader, here is my prescriptive formula for maximum success:

     Take a really hot shower- at least 5 minutes 
            (To open pores and bring body temperature up)

       Dive or jump right in, no gradual process
            (To close pores rapidly to excrete toxins from skin)

       Swim and move about for at least 3-5 minutes
            (To keep blood flowing and body temp up)

       Hang out as long as you can- meditate, visit with family and friends
            (To ease the mind and socialize)

       Get a back massage in the spray
            (To relax neck, shoulders and lower back)

       Take one last underwater plunge
            (To see pure spring water with no chemicals to the eyes)

       Repeat as often as necessary
            (Once is usually enough, but up to three may be warranted)

       Optional finish with hot shower
            (In spring and fall when outside air keeps body temp low)

So what are the benefits of this pool dipping drama?

           Cleans your skin letting it feel smooth and soft

           Soothes sore muscles like a gentle massage

           Restores energy and vigor to face the day with confidence and courage

          Awe from your family and friends who have yet to understand its power

For me personally, my pool dipping experiences have provided a connection with both my immediate ancestors and the history of healing that predates our family.  It has aided in the recovery of any number of running related ailments and just as importantly served as a “reboot button” to my overall operating system.  To all of you who all ready know of what I speak, I say: “Polar bears rule!”  To all those yet to be converted, I say: “A whole new world of body, mind and spirit healing awaits.  So dive right in!”

That is all,
Jonathan
3rd Generation Capon Family Member
Marketing and Recreation Manager