WELLNESS
There's something inherently soothing about water. Whether it's the sight of sea, up close from a beach or from a distant horizon, or the rhythmic sound of waves gently lapping against the shore, or the calming effect of a boat gliding effortlessly across a still lake surface, or the sensation of cascading waterfalls pouring overhead––water has a unique ability to refresh, sooth, heal, and relax. In our fast-paced, often chaotic, yet exponentially interconnected lives, finding moments of calm, a solitary time to self-heal and reset, can be challenging. Our bodies thirst. We yearn for water physiologically, and even spiritually.
Aqua Therapy can help solve the imbalance we often experience from the confusion of the ‘daily grind’. This therapy, which is as simple as being around water, can provide a sanctuary where one can reconnect with this essential element, refresh, and re-calibrate one’s bearings.
Multiple Benefits
Research has shown that just being near a body of water already has a profound effect on our mental health. The term "blue mind" refers to the meditative state that water induces, characterized by feelings of calm, relaxation, and a sense of general well-being. Here are some key psychological benefits people get from water:
Stress Reduction
The gentle, rhythmic sounds of water can lower stress levels. The sight and sound of water activate our parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for rest and relaxation. This can reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol and promote a sense of calm.
Enhanced Creativity
Bodies of water have been known to stimulate creativity and enhance problem-solving skills. The expansive horizon can free the mind, allowing it to wander and explore new ideas. Many writers, artists, and thinkers have found inspiration by the water's edge.
Improved Focus and Clarity
The tranquility of open waters can improve focus and mental clarity. Away from the distractions of daily life, the mind can reset and refocus. This is why many people find it easier to meditate or engage in deep thought near water.
Emotional Healing
Water has a soothing effect on our emotions. It can provide a sense of safety and security, helping to heal emotional wounds. The natural ebb and flow of tides can symbolize the release of negative emotions, promoting emotional balance and well-being.
The Science Behind 'Water Bliss'
The 'water bliss' we feel, be it psychological or physiological, has a scientific basis. It is founded on the fact that the human body is mostly comprised of water, and so reacts the water does to other elements.
Negative Ions: Gushing waterfalls and powerful ocean waves, generate a considerable amount of negative ions in the air that benefit the human body. These negatively charged particles increase the flow of oxygen to the brain, resulting in higher alertness, decreased drowsiness, and more mental energy. Negative ions can also reduce symptoms of depression and boost overall mood.
Color Psychology: The color blue is often associated with calmness and serenity. It's no coincidence that many people find the sight of blue waters soothing. The color blue can lower blood pressure and reduce heart rate, contributing to a feeling of relaxation.
Sound Therapy: The sounds of water, such as waves crashing, rain falling, or a stream flowing, are often used in sound therapy to promote relaxation and sleep. These sounds can mask background noise, providing a peaceful auditory environment that promotes restfulness.
Natural Rhythms: The natural rhythms of water, such as the ebb and flow of tides or the gentle rocking of a boat, can synchronize with our body's rhythms. This can promote a state of relaxation and harmony, making it easier to let go of stress and tension.
Take their word for it
To illustrate the profound impact that water can have on our well-being, here are some personal quotes from famous people who have found water bliss.
"We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch - we are going back from whence we came."
––John F. Kennedy (35th President of the United States)
"The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever."
––Jacques Cousteau (French Naval Officer, Explorer, and Conservationist)
"To stand at the edge of the sea, to sense the ebb and flow of the tides, is to have knowledge of things that are as nearly eternal as any earthly life can be."
––Rachel Carson (Marine Biologist and Conservationist)
"The cure for anything is salt water: sweat, tears, or the sea."
––Isak Dinesen (Author, also known as Karen Blixen)
"A lake is a landscape's most beautiful and expressive feature. It is Earth's eye; looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature."
––Henry David Thoreau (American Naturalist and Philosopher)
“Would you learn the secret of the sea? Only those who brave its dangers, comprehend its mystery!”
–– Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
"Rivers flow not past, but through us; tingling, vibrating, exciting every cell and fiber in our bodies, making them sing and glide."
––John Muir (Naturalist and Author)
"Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better. The river delights to lift us free, if only we dare let go."
––Albert Einstein (Theoretical Physicist)
"The waves broke and spread their waters swiftly over the shore. One after another they massed themselves and fell; the spray tossed itself back with the energy of their fall."
––Virginia Woolf (Author)
"Nothing is softer or more flexible than water, yet nothing can resist it."
––Lao Tzu (Ancient Chinese Philosopher)
Ways to Experience Water Bliss
There are many ways to immerse yourself in water bliss. Whether you prefer the quiet solitude of a secluded beach or the adventure of sailing across the ocean, there is an experience to suit every preference. One only needs to be creative, and willing to try.
Beach Visits: Spending time on the beach is a classic way to relax by the water. The sound of waves, the feel of sand between your toes, and the sight of the vast ocean can create a deeply calming experience. Whether you enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or simply walking along the shore, the beach offers a perfect escape from everyday stress.
Boating: Boating provides a unique way to experience the tranquility of open waters. Whether you're sailing, kayaking, or taking a leisurely ride on a motorboat, being on the water can offer a sense of freedom and peace. The gentle rocking motion of a boat can be especially soothing, creating a feeling of being cradled by the water.
Fishing: Fishing is not only a popular recreational activity but also a way to connect with nature and experience the calmness of open waters. The patience and focus required for fishing can be meditative, helping to clear the mind and reduce stress. Some fish from the shore, some from a boat. It doesn't matter. Fishing in itself is therapeutic.
Swimming: Swimming can be a liberating and calming experience. The sensation of water enveloping your body, the rhythmic movements, and the natural buoyancy can create a sense of weightlessness and freedom. Swimming in the ocean, a lake, or a river can be a powerful way to connect with the natural world and find inner peace.
Waterfront Walks: Walking along the waterfront, whether it's a beach, a riverbank, or a lakeshore, can provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The combination of fresh air, scenic views, and the soothing sounds of water can create a blissful environment oriented towards recreation, relaxation, reflection or recuperation.
Meditation by the Water: Meditating by a water body can enhance focus and dissipate stress. The natural sounds, sights, and smells of the water can help deepen your meditation practice, promoting a greater sense of tranquility and inner peace.
Water Sports: Engaging in water sports like kayaking, paddle-boarding, surfing, or snorkeling can provide a unique blend of excitement and relaxation. While these activities can be physically demanding, they also offer opportunities to connect with the water and experience its various benefits.
Where to Find Water Bliss
Coastal resorts and hotels capitalize on the natural beauty of open waters, offering guests stunning views, direct access to beaches, and a range of water-based activities. These destinations provide the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation, attracting tourists seeking an escape from their daily routines.
Cruises offer a unique way to experience water bliss, combining the comforts of a floating hotel with the adventure of exploring different ports of call. Cruise ships provide a wide range of amenities and activities, allowing passengers to enjoy the sight of myriad ocean views, and to assimilate beneficial ionized sea wind, while also participating in on-board entertainment and excursions.
Many travel destinations offer water sports and activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. These activities not only provide excitement and adventure but also allow people to connect with the water and experience its multiple qualities.
Eco-tourism focuses on responsible travel to natural areas, emphasizing conservation and sustainability. Many eco-tourism destinations are centered around bodies of water, such as coral reefs, mangrove forests, and river ecosystems. These destinations offer opportunities for visitors to learn about and appreciate the natural environment while being around water.
Wellness retreats often incorporate the calming effects of water into their programs, offering activities such as yoga on the beach, meditation by the water, and spa treatments with ocean views. These retreats provide a holistic approach to relaxation and rejuvenation, promoting physical and mental well-being.
For those seeking peace and tranquility away from the crowds, off-the-beaten-path locations offer unique and serene experiences. Whether it's driving to a nearby waterfall, hiking to a secluded blue hole, or finding a quiet pond deep in the forest, these natural water settings provide a perfect escape. These hidden gems allow visitors to immerse themselves in nature, find solitude, and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of water without the hustle and bustle of more popular and more populated tourist spots.
One need not go far to enjoy the benefits of water. Simple activities like soaking in a bathtub, spending time in a pool, or enjoying a long, relaxing shower can provide the same calming effects as being near open waters. These everyday water experiences can be incredibly soothing, offering a quick and convenient way to unwind and de-stress.
Tips for Maximizing Water Bliss
For optimal water bliss experience, consider the following tips:
Disconnect from Technology: Put away your phone, laptop, and other devices, and focus on being present in the moment. Allow yourself to fully immerse in the sights, sounds, and sensations of the water.
Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment. Practice mindfulness by focusing on the sensory experiences of being near the water. Notice the trickling water, the sound of the waves, the feel of the breeze, and the smell of the sea air. Allow yourself to fully experience and appreciate these sensations.
Choose the Right Time: The time of day can significantly impact your experience of open waters. Early mornings and late afternoons often offer the most peaceful and serene conditions, with fewer people and calmer waters. Your personal biorhythm is certainly a factor. Go with the time your body is most ready to absorb and assimilate sensations. The various hues of sunrise and sunset can also come into play and provide stunning views that could enhance the water experience.
Stay Safe: Safety is essential when immersing in greater bodies of water like seas and lakes. Always follow safety guidelines, whether you're swimming, boating, or participating in water sports. Wear appropriate safety gear, such as life jackets, and be aware of weather conditions and water currents.
Respect the Environment: To preserve the natural beauty of water bodies, practice environmentally responsible behavior. Avoid littering, be mindful of marine life, and follow local regulations and guidelines. By respecting the environment, you can help ensure that these serene spaces remain pristine for future generations to enjoy.
Water is life. The bliss we feel whenever immersed in it or just around it attests to its life-giving properties. By it, we are healed, cleansed, refreshed, and rejuvenated. It is the medium by which we connect to the greater life, the wholeness of nature.
Be conscious of it. Whether you find peace in the rhythmic sounds of the ocean, refreshment in bathing in it, or drinking it, water has a profound ability to soothe the mind and body. By understanding the psychological and physiological benefits that water gives, we'll be able to use it more efficiently, and perhaps in ever more various ways.
Cherish water. Immerse in it. Splash in it. Absorb it. Consume it. Reset in it. These are what it's for.
