How to Bathe in a Pond

Bathing in ponds can be a serene way to enjoy nature and connect with your natural surroundings. Pond bathing can be quite relaxing as long as you are aware of what the local regulations are regarding public pond bathing and are respectful of the city or county's civil codes. Other things to be aware of before you decide to take a dip in a pond are the water quality. Animals like geese can foul water, or fertilizer run-off can cause algae blooms that can cause you serious illness.

Things You'll Need

  • Swim suit
  • Castile soap
  • Water quality test kit
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find out what the local regulations are about swimming in a pond on public land. A city or county may require that you wear a bathing suit, or may only allow you to swim in certain ponds. Go online to your city or county's Web page to see if any warnings or health advisories have been posted.

    • 2

      Find out if the city or county regularly checks the water quality of the public pond you want to bath in. Some cities test ponds for harmful bacterial overgrowths, such as E. coli, which can cause sickness and even death in humans. Another micro organism that cities test for when ascertaining water quality is blue green algae. This organism is a cyanobacteria, and overgrowths of it can contaminate the air around ponds with toxic fumes that can be fatal to people with breathing problems. Blue green algae can also cause sickness to people who swim in or ingest water that has an overgrowth of the cyanobacteria.

    • 3

      Test your water. If you plan to swim in a pond that is on acreage you own or is in your backyard, make sure to test the water quality for harmful microorganisms. You can purchase testing kits at swimming pool supply stores.

    • 4

      Use biodegradable soap, like pure castile soap, made from natural oils, if you plan to take baths in your pond. Commercial soaps may have detergents in them that have a high nitrogen content, and whose build up over time can pollute your pond with chemicals that contribute to the growth of bacteria and algae.

    • 5

      Use plants in your pond to help filter the water to keep it clean. Marine plants can filter out particles from the water of a pond, and can absorb nitrates that may otherwise accumulate in the water, which may come from birds who also enjoy bathing.