Looking for a mini adventure that will awaken your senses and immerse you in the beauty of nature? Look no further than Janet's Foss, a breathtaking waterfall nestled within a magical woodland setting in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
At EBB & FLO, we believe that connecting with nature is essential to our wellbeing. That's why we embarked on an EBBVENTURE #3 to Janet's Foss, to experience the transformative power of nature and the sense of adventure that comes with exploring new places.
The Journey Begins:
We began our journey at the Yorkshire Dales National Car Park in Malham, where we took a short 1-mile walk along Gordale Lane towards the waterfall. As we drew closer, we could hear the sound of crashing water echoing through the surrounding woodland. The lime-rich waters of the Foss have formed a screen of spongy moss-covered rocks beneath the waterfall, adding to the otherworldly aesthetic of the landscape. Legend tells that 'Janet' was the queen of the fairies and supposedly lived in a little cave behind the waterfall, which only added to the enchanting atmosphere of the place.
Embracing Nature's Power:
We were fortunate to visit on a day with bright blue skies and the Wolf Moon, the first full moon of the year. We wanted to embrace the power of the full moon and immerse ourselves in the waterfall for a full moon ritual cleanse, setting our intentions for the year ahead.
To prepare for the cold, we packed our winter essentials:
- Kelly kettle
- Fire lighters & striker
- EBB & FLO beanie
- EBB & FLO hoodie
- Full Moon candle
- Journal for intention-setting
- Towel
- Tea-making supplies (Yorkshire tea only!)
- Robie
- Snacks
- Camera
- Blanket
Our motto is "better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it."
On this particular adventure, we knew we would be diving into the water despite the chilly January weather, with the water temperature predicted to be a mere 4°C. Knowing the dangers of cold water shock, we urge caution to anyone attempting to take the plunge, especially if you're not accustomed to cold water immersion.
Exploring the Surroundings:
Before we braced ourselves for the wintry waters, we decided to explore the waterfall's surroundings. To the right of the waterfall, we discovered a steep little hill that led up to a cave opening situated above the foss's height. From this vantage point, we savored the panoramic views of the foss and surrounding woodlands. It was an epic spot, and the cave was a hidden gem to explore. The interior exuded an earthy, dark aura, making it a stunning little space. It was easy to imagine lighting a fire and cosying up inside, feeling like primitive cavemen.
The Invigorating Plunge:
After leaving the cave, we readied ourselves for the cleanse. Setting the mood with candles, we also arranged the cameras to capture our unfiltered reactions. We took the plunge. Despite the bone-chilling temperature stealing our breath away, the sensation was invigorating and we couldn't help but erupt in laughter. We frolicked in the water for a while, submerging ourselves under the powerful cascade of the waterfall, feeling the weight and coldness of the water giving us brain freeze.
Gratitude and Reflection:
Being immersed in the power of nature is incredibly grounding, and it always instills a deep sense of gratitude in us for the natural forces that surround us. We spent some time playing and laughing before making our way out, eager to start a fire and indulge in a piping hot brew. It was truly an unforgettable experience!
Our adventure to Janet's Foss allowed us to immerse ourselves in nature and escape from the stress of daily life. It nurtured our wellbeing, fostered a sense of adventure, and created lasting memories. We hope that by sharing our experience with you, you'll be inspired to embark on your own EBBVENTURE and discover the transformative power of nature for yourself.
So pack a bag, grab a hot brew, and hit the road to discover new places. You never know what adventures and experiences await you just beyond the horizon.