What is Blue Mind Therapy?

Blue Mind Therapy is based on the idea that being near, in, on, or under water can have a profound and positive impact on our mental health. Coined by marine biologist and author Wallace J. Nichols, the term "Blue Mind" describes the mildly meditative state we enter when we are in or near water. 

The Blue Mind Theory is the idea that being in proximity to water can ease your mind into a meditative state. Nichols claims that being in or near water triggers a positive response in our brains, since humans are mostly made of water, our brains see it and think, “I’m in the right place.” 

This neutral, calm Blue Mind state contrasts what Nichols calls the “Red Mind” state in which our bodies have become accustomed to in a faster paced modern environment.

“being near, in, on, or under water can have a profound and positive impact on our mental health”

Nichols proposes that one of the reasons behind the positive psychological effects of water pertains to how our brains evolved, essentially the ebb and flow of water can tell our brains that it’s safe to relax. Being near a constant yet changing environment such as water can trigger a phenomenon known as involuntary attention. Involuntary attention refers to the automatic, unconscious redirection of focus towards a stimulus without deliberate effort or intention. It is a fundamental aspect of human cognition that helps us quickly respond to potential threats or important changes in our environment. 

 The Benefits of Blue Mind Therapy

Water's calming presence can lower stress levels. The sound of waves, the sight of water, and even the feel of water on our skin can activate our parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

Engaging in water activities like swimming, kayaking, or even walking by the beach can enhance physical health. These activities promote cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and overall fitness.

Doctors have been prescribing days at the beach for centuries, as salt water, warm sand, and sea breeze benefit people's health. There are obvious differences in being surrounded by open air and water and being surrounded by buildings, and traffic congestion. Spending time  by the sea, river and lakes means more time spent outdoors therefore being  more exposed to the sun's vitamin D. This has an impact on better immune health, improved calcium absorption levels, and can even help to develop fewer allergies.

How you can Introduce Blue Mind Therapy into Your Life

Incorporating Blue Mind Therapy into your routine doesn't require living by the sea or spending hours swimming each day. Here are some practical ways to embrace the healing power of water:

Making regular trips to nearby lakes, rivers, or beaches, even a short visit, to listen and look at the water can provide a mental reset and improve your mood. Practicing mindfulness or meditation by water by focusing on the sights, sounds, and sensations can help to ground yourself in the present moment.

Engage in water-based activities such as swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply floating. These activities offer both physical exercise and mental relaxation.

“focusing on the sights, sounds, and sensations can help to ground yourself in the present moment.”

Not everyone is close to water, but this shouldn’t deter you from being able to reep the benefits. Bringing water into your home, such as  adding a small indoor fountain, sound machines that plays ocean or river sounds and even transforming your bath into a therapeutic experience. Use soothing bath salts, essential oils, and calming music to create a spa-like environment at home.

Practicing blue mind therapy can also be a great wait to meet new people. Look for local clubs or groups that engage in water activities. This can provide social interaction, motivation, and a shared appreciation for the benefits of water.

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1. In a 2012, TED Talk author Wallace J. Nichols dives into the impacts of “Red Mind” and how it can bring about toxic stress that kills neurons — and your creativity along with it.

2. The Impact of Nature and Community on your Mental Health | Well Being Hive - we discuss how experiencing a sense of belonging is vital for our psychological well-being.

3. Wholesome world - look into how adding cold water therapy alongside blue mnd therapy can positively impct your health