As we don’t subscribe to cable at our residence, my girls have had ample opportunities to indulge in their favorite shows when visiting their grandparents’ homes. One such program they’ve developed a taste for is Pool Master, a show centered around an individual who creates natural pools. Their enthusiasm has piqued my interest, and I’m now considering the possibility of having a pool at our place.
The concept of creating a natural swimming pond resonates with me, particularly since it aligns with our goal of minimizing artificial elements in our home. But what benefits would such an addition bring to our property? Specifically, how would a natural swimming pond enhance our living space?
You Can Customize It Any Way You Like
For those seeking a visually appealing pool that blends seamlessly into its surroundings, a natural pool offers a unique solution. By leveraging the benefits of natural filtration systems, you can create a crystal-clear pool that mimics the characteristics of a serene pond. The traditional approach to pool design often involves pouring concrete and hiding unsightly gravel filters beneath or elsewhere within the pool.
In contrast, a natural pool allows you to incorporate organic elements like boulders, stones, and clay to craft a custom oasis that’s limited only by your imagination.
It is Better for Your Skin
While chlorine is often touted as a necessary evil for maintaining clean and sanitary pools, it’s essential to acknowledge its potential impact on your skin. Prolonged exposure to chlorinated water can lead to a range of issues, including eczema, itchiness, and the development of rashes. Moreover, repeated exposure can cause premature aging of the skin, leaving you looking tired and worn out.
In contrast, opting for chlorine-free pools or taking steps to minimize your exposure to these chemicals can have a profound impact on your overall experience. Imagine being able to enjoy hours of swimming without feeling restricted by tight, dry skin – it’s a refreshing prospect, indeed.
It is also Good for the Environment
Just as harsh chemicals can wreak havoc on your skin over time, they also have a devastating impact on the environment. When draining a pool for the summer, it’s possible that the treated water will flow into nearby streams and rivers, carrying with it toxic byproducts like dioxin. This chemical compound is notorious for contaminating waterways and harming aquatic life, making for a decidedly uninviting scenario.
It Requires No Draining and Provides Year Round Enjoyment
When considering the maintenance needs of your pool, one crucial aspect is often overlooked: draining it. However, this step is entirely unnecessary, as long as the water remains in its natural state. In areas with cold winters, for instance, you can simply top up the water if it gets too low, rather than performing a full drain. Furthermore, the water’s cleanliness and filtration system ensure it remains suitable for use, even when temperatures drop.
In fact, this setup allows for some unique benefits – like using your pool as an ice rink during the colder months! For those living in warmer climates, you can take things to the next level by installing a heating element, allowing for year-round swimming. Ultimately, with proper care and attention, your pool’s water can remain healthy and pristine without the need for frequent draining.
They Deter Pests
In many cases, a frog or reptile may initially be attracted to a new water source. However, once they discover it lacks sustenance, they will naturally disperse on their own. Meanwhile, if any ‘pests’ do inhabit the area, they are more likely to gravitate towards the pond’s regeneration zone. The silver lining is that these animals serve as beneficial consumers, feeding on mosquitoes and their larvae.
To ensure pests don’t linger near the poolside, periodic skimming of the water may be necessary. A traditional pool would require similar maintenance, so this added step doesn’t pose any unique concerns.
It Provides Entertainment Opportunities Outside of Electronic Devices
Spend quality time with family and friends without distractions! Having a pool at home means you can enjoy swimming and playtime together during the summer. This unique opportunity allows for bonding and connection without the influence of the outside world’s noise. Moreover, it encourages kids to engage in outdoor activities, replacing screen time with fresh air and nature. When friends come over, everyone gets to experience the benefits – a perfect recipe for creating lifelong memories.
Fitness
One of the most significant advantages of having kids learn how to swim is that it keeps them occupied and engaged. The excitement of exploring water games and activities means they’ll be less likely to indulge in snacking or raiding the pantry. This is especially true for younger children, who can benefit from learning to swim at a young age. As parents, this realization often motivates us to seek out swimming lessons or take on the task ourselves.
For adults, water-based exercises like aerobics offer a low-impact way to burn calories and boost overall fitness. From swimming laps to simply walking around in the pool, there are countless ways to get moving while minimizing joint stress. This type of exercise is particularly beneficial for those who may struggle with high-impact activities due to joint concerns.
Moreover, incorporating water-based workouts into one’s routine can have a significant impact on cardiovascular health and contribute to weight loss efforts.
It Will Help You Sleep Better
The cyclical connection between having a pool, physical activity, and better sleep has become evident over the past few sessions. The initial spark of getting outside and moving around sparked a chain reaction of increased physical activity, which in turn, contributed to improved sleep quality. Additionally, exposure to sunlight (don’t forget that sunscreen!) and a lower body temperature also played a significant role in hastening sleep onset.
This trio of benefits isn’t limited to those who struggle with falling asleep or staying asleep; it also has positive implications for adults whose children are night owls, thereby creating a harmonious balance in their lives.
The Year-to-Year Costs are Cheaper and It Reduces the Work
One of the most appealing aspects of natural pools is their minimalistic maintenance routine. Unlike traditional pools, they don’t require the use of chemicals or electronic filtration systems, making them a more eco-friendly option. In fact, according to ecopoolsonline. com, natural pool systems consume approximately 40% less energy than their conventional counterparts. To maintain these pools, you’ll simply need to skim the surface and remove any debris that may have accumulated.
This task can be accomplished by taking a leisurely stroll around the pool, which also serves as a great workout opportunity – a win-win! Furthermore, having a natural pool eliminates the need for mowing the surrounding area, freeing up more time in your day and reducing the overall upkeep of your home.
You Know What’s In It
For my husband and me, this concern has significant implications. It’s what drives us to handle many household tasks ourselves, including tasks like ketchup-making and oil changes. Similarly, knowing what goes into our pool is crucial. If I were to take the girls to a public city pool, we’d be exposed to unknown chemicals and potential contaminants from other users.
Even if we opted for a natural option like wading in a creek, there are still risks involved, as we can’t guarantee the origin of the water.
It’s Good for Your Mental Health
Living by the ocean or even having a serene water feature in your backyard can be incredibly transformative. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Ocean City, Maryland and Galveston Island, Texas this summer, and it’s striking how relaxed locals are when surrounded by the calming influence of the sea. Similarly, tourists seem to unwind as they soak up the laid-back atmosphere. The constant sound of water flowing and the picturesque surroundings have a profound impact on people’s moods.
In fact, I believe that having a tranquil oasis in your own backyard can be just what you need to rebalance your life. With the stresses of everyday life piling up, it’s essential to find ways to unwind and recharge. Whether it’s by building a swimming pond or simply enjoying a peaceful spot, taking time to decompress is crucial for both personal and professional well-being.
You Get the Benefit of Two Ponds in One
In natural pool construction, two separate pools are typically designed: the primary pool for swimming and the filter pool, which serves as a habitat for beneficial plants like water lilies. The filtered pool’s unique ecosystem not only enhances water quality but also provides a visually appealing space for relaxation and contemplation.
This dual-pool setup can be customized to include additional features, allowing you to create a unique blend of function and aesthetics that caters to your personal preferences.
Your Home Becomes the Place to Be
As I reflect on my desire for my home to be the hub of activity, it’s not just about exerting control – although that might be a natural byproduct. For me, it’s about creating an environment where my girls and their friends feel welcome and valued. If that means inviting parents over to hang out, I’m all in. The goal is to make our home the go-to spot, where memories are made and connections are forged.
One of the people who has inspired me on this journey is Delilah, a renowned radio DJ who embodies the homesteading spirit. During the summer months, her kids and their friends work together in the morning, taking advantage of the cooler weather. In the afternoon, they engage in fun activities that bring everyone closer together. It’s a win-win situation for both children and parents. Similarly, incorporating a pool into your home design can be a game-changer.
Not only does it provide an added layer of safety and security for family and friends, but it also opens up new possibilities for relaxation and recreation. By doing so, you’re not only creating a sense of community, but also fostering a deeper sense of belonging.
If You Already Have a Pool, You Don’t Have to Start Over
If you’re looking to transition from a traditional pool to a natural one, don’t worry about removing the existing pool structure. Simply ensure that there’s sufficient space for a regeneration pond, conduct thorough research or hire an expert to guide the process, and have it converted over. The primary focus will be on setting up the regeneration pond and designing the water flow from it to your pool area.
This innovative approach not only allows you to enjoy a natural pool but also creates a serene water garden without exposing yourself to harsh chemicals.
It Makes Your Home More Elegant
Double the elegance of your home with two ponds! This unique feature not only enhances your property’s value but also creates a sense of serenity and relaxation. The increased allure of your home can have a profound impact on your mood, making it feel like you’re always on vacation. With two ponds, you’ll be surrounded by the soothing sounds and tranquil atmosphere that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Diving into the Deep End
Once we secure our property, one of our top priorities will be constructing a swimming pond. We’re excited to document our DIY process and share it with readers in the future. For those who have considered installing a pool, I highly recommend exploring the option of a natural pool. Not only can it provide similar benefits to traditional pools at a lower cost, but it also offers numerous advantages for both the environment, human health, and community.
