Five Ways Watersports Improve Your Mental Health
We all know that swimming, kayaking, and other watersports provide a vigorous physical workout that can get your adrenaline pumping.
But exercising in the open water where you’re out in the sun and breathing fresh air offers more than a full-body workout. It also improves your mental health by lifting your spirits, boosting your mood and calming your mind.
Here are five key benefits watersports can have on your mental health:
1. Improves Your Mood
Studies show that swimming can reduce feelings of anger, confusion, stress and depression among both men and women, as reported in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Beyond swimming, all watersports improve your mood by releasing hormones called endorphins, the natural secretions that makes us feel happy. On the water, you’ll feel more energized, more focused and less stressed out about everyday life.
2. Relaxes the Mind
Whether you’re kayaking on the ocean or canoeing on a lake, spending time observing marine life can calm the mind for the few hours you’re on the water. You’ll feel relaxed and peaceful as you paddle and take in the beauty of nature around you.
3. Regulates Your Mental Health
Practicing a water sport helps you let go of stress as it forces you to focus on the activity you are doing out on the water. You’ll forget about your demanding job as you experience the soothing benefits of taking up an aquatic sport.
4. Creates a Sunny Disposition
Soaking up some sunshine improves our mental health because it increases serotonin, the hormone that stabilizes our mood and feelings of well-being and happiness. Exercising in the sun not only boosts our mood but it can also help people who suffer from anxiety and depression.
5. Increases Social Interaction
Many watersports are practiced in groups, which provides a great way to meet and socialize with other people. Whether kayaking with family members or taking a sailing class, watersports provide a way to connect with people while you are doing something that is both relaxing and enjoyable.
If you’d like to try a watersport on the pristine waters of the U.S. Virgin Islands, book a kayaking tour with Island Kayak Sailing Adventures in St. Croix. You’ll explore remote beaches, snorkel or practice yoga from a kayak, all while enjoying the spectacular blue waters. It’s guaranteed to relax and refresh your mind.
