Blue Therapy For Boosting Your Physical & Mental Health

Spending time in a natural environment with water bodies is very beneficial for our health, and this practice has a name called "Blue Therapy". Time spent near blue places can promote physical health as well as mental health.

Being near the water, and thinking about the blue landscape gives peace of mind. In some cultures, for example, in France, during the time of the artist Vincent van Gogh, blue was associated with morning. Today, in colour treatments, blue is the colour of calmness and soothingness.

By the seashore, the air we breathe is charged with negative ions. These molecules are believed to have a positive effect on the body on serotonin levels and thus improve our mood. In addition, the air is purified, and the presence of microalgae improves the mind. The sounds of nature, such as the sound of running water, reduce stress and relax the brain. According to a study published in 2021, walking along the banks of the pond improves health and mood.

People who live near a particular water body (within a kilometre) are often in better physical and mental health conditions. According to the New Scientist publication, a framework report from researchers working on the Blue Health Project, the team found that compared to green spaces such as forests and parks, water bodies have a greater impact on physical and mental health. Living in an area, near a lake or ocean also provides access to facilities for physical activities and builds social relationships.

While these areas are currently home to more affluent people, experts seek to improve access to high-quality blue space for disadvantaged communities, while reducing risk, reducing health and environmental inequalities.