Why sailing is good for mental health

Breathing in the clean sea air, hearing the soothing sound of ocean waves and gazing out over the horizon are all things we associate with spending time on the water.

But interestingly, being at sea doesn’t just bring about positive associations like these, it can lead to real tangible improvements to our mental wellbeing, as explained by RYA partner, Insured Health.

Various scientific studies have uncovered a range of mental health benefits that come with being out at sea. Together they have been termed the ‘Blue Mind’ theory, which argues that water has a more profound effect on our mental wellbeing than we had previously thought.

Entering the Blue Mind state may be a familiar feeling to those used to being at sea. But although it can relax us, relaxation isn’t the only mental health benefit of being at sea.

Some of the others include:

• Reduced stress levels
• Improved mood
• Reduced symptoms of attention deficit disorder, atypical autism, PTSD, anxiety and depression
• Better quality sleep
• Improved creativity

The benefits may even stretch further than for our mental wellbeing. Research has also discovered that being in close contact with water can improve the symptoms of dementia, improve your cognitive abilities and lead to reduced pain during childbirth.

So what exactly is it about being at sea that’s so good for our minds? – Full report