Have you noticed that you tend to feel calmer by the water?

Have you noticed that you tend to feel calmer by the water?

Likely you have, and companies have also recognized this, which is why there is a whole market of products geared to sell us on the sounds of the ocean. The reality is that being with nature has long been recognized as having benefits to our physical and mental well-being.  The practice which explores the benefits of spending time around water is called Blue therapy.    

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It has been determined that the air around bodies of water is charged with negative ions which are said to have a positive impact on serotonin levels. Serotonin plays several key roles in your body and is known to have a positive effect on our mood. Spending time in natural spaces such as by the water helps us reconnect with nature and provides the effect of “coming home” which is known to lower stress and improve well-being.  According to the Mental Health Foundation, 65% of people find that being near water improves their mental wellbeing.  (BBE Future, 2022)

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We know that access to water is not equal for everyone and that living in a Canadian climate means we don’t have the luxury of enjoying time by the water year-round. If you are unable to make to the seaside but would like to experience these benefits pull up images of the beach, the Mediterranean, take a stroll along Lake Ontario or natural marshlands.  Also, making use of sound machines can enact the placebo effect and simulate the desired response.  

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For more information or a link to this article please check out:

https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/beauty-grooming/wellness/what-is-blue-therapy-mental-health/

https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20221108-the-doctors-prescribing-blue-therapy