It’s no secret that a fun-filled day at the beach or a tranquil boat ride on a river leaves us feeling refreshed and content. The majority of most people’s best vacation memories include spending time in or near a body of water.
Now, recent research has proven that there is, in fact, scientific evidence that being near water is good for your health. In a study published in the Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom, the authors found this to be true. They refer to ‘blue spaces’ which include inland bodies of water (lakes, rivers and canals) as well as the coasts and oceans.
Spending time in or near water has been proven to be a significant mood booster.
‘An important early finding was the observation that individuals living near the coast are generally healthier and happier than those living inland; much subsequent work has tried to understand why this might be. More recently we have begun to focus on how to promote pro-marine behaviours (e.g. sustainable fish choice, reduction of plastic use, avoidance of littering),’ the authors write.
Another author, marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols confirms this in his book: Blue Mind: The surprising science that shows how being near, in, on, or under water can make you happier, healthier, more connected, and better at what you do.
‘The term “blue mind” describes the mildly meditative state we fall into when near, in, on or under water,’ he told USA Today. ‘It’s the antidote to what we refer to as “red mind,” which is the anxious, over-connected and over-stimulated state that defines the new normal of modern life,’ he says.
Cool colours like blue and green have long been associated with calmness and relaxation. Another element that may play a role, especially when we are active by surfing, swimming or taking a walk on the beach for instance, is that our brain releases endorphins which also make us feel good.
‘Research has proven that spending time near the water is essential to achieving an elevated and sustained happiness,’ Nichols said. While natural bodies of water have the most benefits, Nichols added that any water will do, even a shower.
Image credit: Unsplash
