Natural Pools: Embracing the Wonders of Nature
What if we told you that there’s a better way to cool off than in the confines of an ordinary, traditional swimming pool? Instead of a glaring blue rectangle in your backyard, you can have a serene aquatic oasis surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife, offering you the perfect spot to relax and unwind in harmony with nature. Does that sound too good to be true? Well believe it or not, that’s exactly what you get with a natural pool!
In recent years, natural pools have been gaining significant traction among Australians and for good reason. As more people become environmentally conscious and health-oriented, the appeal of traditional chlorinated swimming pools is fading. Instead, a growing number of individuals are turning to the refreshing and eco-friendly alternative of natural pools. But what exactly is a natural pool? Let’s break it down for you.
What is a natural pool?
A natural pool is an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to traditional chlorinated swimming pools. It harnesses the power of nature to maintain clear and pristine waters, making it a refreshing and inviting oasis for both you and local wildlife.
The magic of a natural pool lies in its filtration system, which is entirely different from that you find in regular pools — instead of relying on harsh chemicals, natural pools utilise an ingenious biological filtration system called a regeneration zone. This zone is usually chock-full of aquatic plants and beneficial bacteria that work together to keep the water clean and clear, while creating a sustainable and eco-friendly habitat for both swimmers and natural wildlife. But that's not all — natural pools come in a variety of types that cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are some common examples;
Bio-Pools: Bio-pools use a smart combination of biology and mechanical filtration to keep the water clean. They have a special regeneration zone where aquatic plants and microorganisms naturally purify the water. The mechanical filters complement this process, ensuring clear and inviting waters without the use of chemicals.
Swimming Ponds: Swimming ponds are concrete-free and offer a larger water area for swimming compared to bio-pools. They’re constructed by excavating and profiling earth-shaped walls to form a swim zone surrounded by regeneration zones where beautiful aquatic water plants help balance the water. With plenty of space for swimming, they're a naturalistic retreat for wildlife lovers and anyone wanting to swim in their own garden.
Living Pools: Living pools are essentially natural pools, but with a stronger emphasis on plant life. They are designed to maximise the presence of aquatic plants, which play a crucial role in water purification. These plants serve as a natural filtration system, absorbing excess nutrients and contaminants. The result is clear, clean, oxygenated water, providing a refreshing swimming experience amidst a beautiful aquatic ecosystem.
What does it feel like swimming in a natural pool?
If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, then you're in for a treat when it comes to swimming in natural pools! Surrounded by greenery and often accompanied by the soothing sounds of waterfalls or wildlife, it's like having a mini nature retreat right in your own backyard. This connection with nature fosters a sense of tranquility and calmness, making each swim a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Oh, and you know that strong chlorine smell and stinging sensation you experience when coming out of a traditional pool? Well, in a natural pool you won't have to deal with any of that! The water in these pools is exceptionally gentle on the skin and here’s why, It’s free from harsh chemicals and instead contains essential minerals that work wonders in nourishing and hydrating your skin. In fact, many people with sensitive skin find that swimming in natural pools reduces the risk of skin allergies or irritations, that’s because the natural filtration systems, often involving plants and microorganisms, creates a more skin-friendly environment where harmful chemicals are filtered out, leaving the water cleaner and safer for your skin. So, after a swim, you'll step out feeling refreshed with noticeably softer and happier skin!
Is a natural pool right for you?
Crystal-clear waters, lush aquatic plants and a chemical-free experience that's gentle on your skin, what’s not to like? However, before you go ahead and start planning, there is a lot to consider. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled some pros (in case you need some extra convincing) and some cons (so you’re aware of any potential inconveniences).
Pros of natural pools:
1. You get to swim in harmony with nature: Many people hike or travel miles just to swim in a creek or river, while others pay money to relax on the shores of a lake for a day. With a natural pool, the only distance you’ll need to travel is to your backyard!
2.Let your creative juices flow: Natural pools open up a whole new world of possibilities in terms of design. You can get creative with various shapes, sizes and even incorporate stunning water features like waterfalls or water streams.
3. Say goodbye to handling chemicals: Natural pools rely on a balanced ecosystem of plants and microorganisms to keep the water clean, eliminating the need for chemical handling. That also means you won't have to store potentially hazardous substances in your pool area, improving safety for you and your family!
4. You can recycle the discharged water: The discharged water from natural pools is environmentally friendly, posing no risk to local ecosystems. The discharged water can also serve as a valuable resource for nourishing soil, gardens and potted plants.
5. Mother Nature will thank you: Natural pools support biodiversity by providing a habitat for various aquatic creatures and insects, contributing to the overall ecological balance of the area.
Cons: 1. Natural pools can attract unwanted wildlife: Of course, a natural pool will probably attract insects with all its purifying plants but for some people this isn’t necessarily an advantage. Dealing with uninvited critters, such as insects, frogs, or birds, could be a concern for individuals who prefer a more controlled and secluded swimming environment.
2. You need to watch out for algae: Small natural pools can be a permanent residence for algae. Algae, if left unchecked can damage the overall health of your pool’s ecosystem and some types, like blue-green algae, can be harmful if you are exposed to it long-term.
3. Natural pools can be more expensive (initially): Since you’re essentially building a tiny wildlife habitat in your backyard, you can expect a higher initial investment compared to traditional pools. The major difference is the need to purchase a variety of different plant and animal life for your pool and maintain them regularly.
4. Natural pools could attract mosquitoes: Swimming among wildlife also means you end up with a few itchy bug bites. Unfortunately, a small body of water like a pond or natural swimming pool is the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes.
5. Natural pools require more space: Natural pools require a much larger space and won’t fit in a small backyard. The regeneration zone itself is typically as large in size, as the pool itself, which may be considered too invasive for some homeowners.
Still on the fence with natural pools?
We get it, a natural pool might not be everyone’s cup of tea. So, if you're not quite ready to embrace the wild side of natural pools (yet) but still want to enjoy the benefits of a chemical-free swimming pool, there’s another option out there for you: mineral pools.
A mineral pool serves as an exceptional alternative to natural pools, providing the perfect blend of nature's timeless beauty and modern living. Just like natural pools, mineral pools harness the gift of nature for water purification. However, instead of relying on aquatic plants and bacteria, mineral pools utilise essential minerals such as magnesium, calcium and/or zinc to naturally purify the pool water. These minerals act as natural disinfectants, promoting water clarity while providing a multitude of benefits for the body.
Mineral pools have been revered over centuries for their remarkable properties and the numerous advantages they offer — the minerals present in these pools were believed to possess healing powers, easing aches, soothing skin conditions, and promoting overall physical and spiritual well-being. Today, mineral pools have become an excellent choice for homeowners seeking an alternative to conventional chlorinated pools. Their crystal-clear water, health benefits and eco-friendliness also make them an excellent choice for individuals who may not be fully committed to the natural pool concept. So, whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a healthier swimming experience, consider taking the plunge into a mineral pool!