Mental health is as important as physical health, although we can’t always see the problems. However, staying mentally well is just as vital as staying fit, though we don’t always see it that way.
A number of things have impacted mental health in the past few years, which has made it a big topic:
1. The pandemic
With so many people spending more time alone, many people’s mental health was affected
2. The cost of living
It isn’t just the price of things going up, but the threat of costs rising, which adds stress
3. Social media
The rise of social media platforms has changed our behavior, affecting people more.
The good news is that we are talking about mental health more than ever. Generation Z (born between 1997 – 2012) are bringing these issues to the table and seeking help.
This is good for a number of reasons:
- Fewer people feel that they are alone with their problems
- The more we talk, the more we can understand
- New platforms that are accessible for people to seek help
- The more people hear about others, then they might be inspired to reach out
However, statistics still say that 30% – 80% of people suffering don’t talk about their mental health.
Everyone has someone that cares about them, even if they don’t feel that way. Whether you are feeling low or know someone that is, we should all help each other through these times.
Things That are Positive for Mental Health
It’s not just talking to people and seeking the support of qualified individuals that improves mental health. There are many things that experts propose for us to try.
Even if you feel mentally fit, there is no harm in taking care of that. Ensuring that you stay mentally strong will help you through periods of trauma, which we all experience.
Some of these include:
- Exercise, even just walking every day
- Eating healthily – those greens are good for your brain too
- Spending time with an animal i.e. walking the dog, playing with a kitten
- Regular breaks from work
A brilliant way to improve your mental health is to spend some time on, or near the water.
Boost Your Mental Health on a Sailing Holiday
Sailing holidays provide the best mental break of all.
Of course, going on holiday brings a wealth of benefits for your mind. However, a sailing holiday can really bring an extra boost to your mental health too.
It’s no surprise that the yacht charter business is booming. With companies such as Borrowaboat making it easy for anyone to charter a yacht, more and more people are sailing.
With people seeking ways to improve their mental health, yacht holidays are growing every year. Statistics have shown that swimming has reduced anxiety and depression for 1.4 million people.
Watersports and activities around the water such as these could really help people’s minds.
How Does the Water Help?
Let’s look at the ways that swimming or other watersports help your mental health
1. Boost endorphins
You know that freshness you feel when you get in the water? That helps release endorphins.
Even doing the breaststroke for a while increases that feeling, because you’re exercising.
2. Increases blood flow to the brain
The brain needs to function properly for us to stay well. Being in the water helps increase blood flow to the brain, which helps protect it from harmful toxins.
3. Swimming in nature is good for you
Cold water swimming is good for treating depression. But anywhere that you’re surrounded by beautiful nature will make you feel good.
4. Blue calms the mind
The color blue has been found to calm the mind, so immersing yourself in that is healthy. Being on or near water has proven to make people happier, so sailing works too.
Where to Go?
If the thought of a few days on a boat makes you feel better already, all you need to do is organize it. This is made easier by BorrowaBoat, as you can find a destination and yacht to suit your needs.
If you need some holiday inspiration, here are some top spots to hire a yacht charter:
1. Greece
With its azure waters, stunning historic sites, and incredible food, Greece is a hotspot for yacht charter. Sail the Ionian Islands with its secluded bays or see the caves of Paxos and its staggering cliffs.
Other stunning places to sail in Greece include:
a. Ithaca, with its impressive beaches
b. The Cyclades, very easy to reach from Athens, see the famous churches of Santorini
c. Party on Mykonos
2. Sardinia
This Italian island has many fantastic beaches to enjoy, so you can swim and snorkel to your heart’s content. The food and wine festivals will also boost your joy as they are life’s simple pleasures.
3. British Virgin Islands
If you’ve dreamed of the Caribbean, then this is where you need to go. The water is perfect for sailing, the weather is subtropical and it’s ideal for watersports practically all year, especially diving.
4. Croatia
With thousands of miles of coastline, Croatia is made for yachting holidays. Split is a great starting point, and the waters of the Adriatic Sea are wonderfully refreshing.
No matter where you choose for your sailing holiday, make sure to get in the water and boost your dopamine. Even a short swim every day will make it a holiday to remember, as you’ll feel more content.
