As a child, I was always drawn to water and aquatic environments. I vividly recall wandering into a lake at a young age, unable to swim but captivated by the allure of the water. Thankfully, a kind stranger saw me struggling and rescued me from the depths. Fast forward several decades, and at the age of 48, I was diagnosed with cancer. During my treatment, one of my oncologists emphasized the importance of staying active, noting that rest doesn’t always mean lying on the couch. This advice inspired me to return to the water, to rediscover the calming and restorative benefits that I had loved as a child.
Nowadays, I regularly go for swims and immerse myself in the ocean, which previously caused me anxiety until I underwent EMDR therapy. However, I recognize that not everyone needs to physically enter the water to experience its positive effects. Simply gazing out at a nearby body of water, whether it’s a lake, river, or ocean, can bring feelings of calm, peace, and expansiveness. Alternatively, walking through a green space and admiring the trees or looking up at the sky can have similar benefits.
I encourage anyone who feels exhausted, anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed to consider seeking solace in the natural world. Even if you don’t have easy access to water, taking a few moments to connect with nature can help you find a greater sense of ease and well-being.
The therapeutic practice known as “blue space therapy” is similar to its green counterpart, this approach centres on the benefits of spending time in natural environments. Personally, I find solace and tranquillity in the vastness of the ocean, where my mind and body are able to unwind and rejuvenate. As I gaze upon the seemingly endless expanse of water, I am struck by the sky’s magnificent display of colours, which subtly shift and blend together, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Blue space therapy is a therapeutic practice that involves spending time in natural aquatic environments, such as oceans, lakes, rivers, or even swimming pools. The goal of this therapy is to promote physical and mental well-being by taking advantage of the calming and restorative effects of water. Similar to green space therapy, which emphasises the benefits of spending time in nature, blue space therapy recognizes the healing properties of natural environments and encourages individuals to connect with them to improve their overall health and wellness.