The Many Benefits of Spending Time by the Water
Take a moment, close your eyes and remember the gentle sound of lapping waves, chattering creeks or trickling waterfalls… Now, chances are that you didn’t do exactly what we asked—but that’s okay. In between busy social schedules, life admin and earning enough to survive, you probably don’t have a lot of time to stop. But if you did, you’ll know that even a moment of imagined time by the water can provide a reprieve from stress. Imagine how much more balanced your life would be if you spent regular time on the beach, in a boat or by a lake. You’d have more space to unwind, reflect, and have fun—all while enjoying fresh air.
If you’re looking for motivation to spend time by the water, look no further. We know all about the benefits of water-based activities and have plenty of ideas on how to get out there more often.
The Benefits of Time by the Water
Spending time by the water offers numerous benefits for physical and mental well-being.
Reduced Stress
One significant benefit of being by the water is the way it reduces stress levels. The rhythmic movement of waves and soothing sounds can calm the mind, alleviating tension and anxiety. If you spend most of your time in cities or suburbia, you’ll also appreciate the chance to escape from daily pressures and embrace the natural environment.
Enhanced Mindfulness
Water environments provide a natural setting for practising mindfulness and being present. The mesmerising sights and sounds of water help anchor attention, allowing complete immersion in the present experience. Whether watching the ocean’s sunrise, kayaking, or sitting by a lake, being near water encourages mindfulness and heightened awareness.
Connectedness to Nature
Time by the water reconnects us with nature, fostering a more profound sense of connection. Exploring coral reefs, observing riverbank wildlife, or marvelling at waterfalls offers endless opportunities for awe. Water’s sights, sounds and sensations can also remind us of our intrinsic connection to the earth and the importance of preserving its resources.
How To Spend More Time by the Water
Despite all the benefits associated with time by the water, it isn’t necessarily easy to get to the beach or lake. We all lead busy lives, and it can feel indulgent or inconvenient to frequent these places of leisure. If a beachy lifestyle is what you want, however, there are ways to make it easier for yourself to get there.
Make Swimming a Regular Form of Exercise
One of the easiest ways to incorporate water time into your routine is to swim regularly. By making swimming your go-to exercise, you treat visiting the water like visiting the gym—except it’s much more fun. The beach is a wonderful place to exercise, allowing you to enjoy fresh air and beautiful views without spending a cent. Swimming is a genuinely fantastic way to stay fit and healthy too, and it rarely feels repetitive or tedious.
Practice Water Sports
If swimming doesn’t quite do it for you, you can also learn a water sport. These sports can be challenging, but they are also incredibly fun, exhilarating and rewarding. Surfing is a popular choice, and windsurfing is also a great way to get out there. For those seeking a rush, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of water skiing, wakeboarding, or kiteboarding, as you defy gravity and skim across the water’s surface. Whatever you choose, a water sport will always keep things fresh and exciting.
Take Up Fishing or Boating
If you prefer a more leisurely approach to spending time by the water, consider taking up fishing or boating. Fishing enthusiasts love to visit tranquil lakes, rivers, or even the open sea to enjoy the water and get the perfect catch. On the other hand, boating offers a wonderful way to explore waterways, whether cruising along a scenic river or navigating through picturesque coastal regions. If you need an affordable and reliable boat to get you started, you can find a sizable collection at Mr Boats. These vessels will allow you to unwind, connect with nature and create lasting memories on the water.
Get Creative With Your Social Life
Why not combine socialising with your love for the water? You could organise beach picnics or challenge your friends to games like volleyball, frisbee, or beach soccer. For a cosy evening gathering, you can huddle around a bonfire on the beach, roast marshmallows, and share stories under the starry sky. Whether laid-back or action-packed, engaging in activities by the water adds an extra element of fun and relaxation to your gatherings.
Make a Point of Relaxing Outdoors
As wonderful as social and sporting activities can be, it’s also essential to relax and rejuvenate outdoors. Settle down on a comfortable beach chair or blanket, and indulge in some quiet relaxation while soaking up the sunshine. You could bring along a good book or simply observe the wildlife around you, whether birds soaring overhead or crabs scuttling along the shoreline. By making a conscious effort to unwind outdoors, you can recharge your mind, body and soul, leaving yourself refreshed and ready to tackle whatever life throws your way.
Dip Your Feet In!
Taking care of yourself doesn’t have to be a drag. The key to a healthy lifestyle is pushing yourself to pursue hobbies that excite, delight and destress you. If you miss being by the water, take the leap today and travel to your nearest beach or lake. It’s the perfect time to swim, splash, sit back and relax—you deserve it!
