Have you ever felt more relaxed just by watching the waves, listening to rain or dipping your toes in a stream? That’s the magic of water in its ability to help us feel more calm. Science shows us that being near water helps our bodies and minds unwind – whether it’s a walk by a river, listening to ocean sounds, swimming in a lake or even watching a nature documentary.
Into the blue
Wallace J Nichols, a marine biologist and author of Blue Mind, explored how being near water affects the human mind. He discovered that spending time in, on, under or near water can help you feel calmer, healthier and more balanced. It lowers stress and anxiety, slows breathing and heart rate and boosts overall wellbeing.
This connection to water offers a chance to slow down and recharge. And it’s not just relaxing; it’s a simple way to look after your mental and emotional health.
Look for the magic
You might think you don’t have easy access to water – but chances are, you do. Scientists say there are lots of different ways to connect with it. There’s wild water, such as lakes, rivers or the sea; urban water, such as public fountains or canals; domestic water, including baths, showers or swimming pools; and even virtual water, which you can experience through art, music, writing or photography. All of these can help you harness the calming effects of ‘Blue Mind’ – the calmness you feel when you’re near water.
Ideas for tapping into this calming power include walking by a river or canal, swimming at a local pool or just sitting quietly by a fountain. Even watching raindrops fall can help you feel more relaxed and connected. The key is simply to spend time near water – whatever that looks like for you.
The bigger picture
Spending time near water doesn’t just boost wellbeing – it can also help the planet. Being close to wild water such as rivers, lakes or the ocean connects you with the local ecosystem. It’s a great chance to notice the plants, birds, fish and other animals living there, and how they interact with their environment. And also to understand why protecting these places is so important.
Find your blue space
You don’t need to be near the sea, a river or a lake to enjoy the calming power of water. Here are some simple ways to soak up its soothing effects from the comfort of your own home
- Run a warm bubble bath once a week and leave behind any screens or loud distractions. Close your eyes, take deep breaths and let yourself fully unwind.
- Try a small indoor water fountain in your bedroom or a quiet corner of your home. Watch the gentle flow or listen to the soft trickling sound – it can be incredibly calming and restful.
- Swap your usual music or podcasts for peaceful ocean sounds, such as waves lapping on the shore or gentle whale calls. These can also help you drift into a restful sleep.
- Hang a photo or poster of a serene water scene such as a lake, beach or waterfall in your room. Just glancing at it can help you feel more connected to nature.
- Choose nature-inspired programmes when watching TV. BBC Earth, for example, has beautiful videos such as Open Ocean or Deep Ocean that bring tranquil underwater worlds to your screen.