Hi

Happy New Year! I hope you had a restful break and are now feeling hopeful for the year ahead. It is easy to get caught up in the buzz of resolutions and goal setting in January, but if you have been an Outdoor Swimmer reader for a while, you will know I think January is a better time for planning and reflecting. Allow this month to be a time to reset. Gently get back into your swimming or fitness routines. The January 'Creativity' issue of Outdoor Swimmer isn’t encouraging you to be anything other than the person you already are and is deliberately focused on creativity. Rest, reflect and reserve resolutions for spring!

Scroll down for my highlights of what's in the Creativity issue. 

Ella Foote, Editor

• Forget boring box sets! We meet the filmmakers creating a new wave of inspiring swim films – and select our top ten independent swim films that you can watch right now. 
• Do you find it hard to put your knickers on after a winter swim? This month’s beautiful cover is by swimming artist Nancy Farmer, who chats with us about what inspires her drawings – from planks to fumbling with your pants. 
• Keen to challenge yourself with events in the new year? Check out our Challenge section for swim listings and event reviews from around the world. 
• Do you dream of writing poetry? Poet Katrina Naomi shares her tips on how to get your creative juices flowing and create beautiful swimming-inspired poetry.
• Would you like to be a better swimmer by spring? You had better catch up on our Winter Freestyle Refresher Course! This issue we explain how to use your arms properly when swimming front crawl.
• Do you struggle to get warm after your winter dips? We test the latest innovative products designed to help you warm up after a cold water swim. 
• Plus much more! All the regulars, including health news, outdoor swimming news, training, swim locations, technique, travel, event listings, gear news and kit reviews.