National Boating Week: Boating is good for you
People’s minds change for the better when they’re out on the water, research showsThe benefits of recreational boating have been assumed for decades. Now, through some interesting and compelling work, there’s the evidence to back up that claim.
Award-winning marine biologist Dr Wallace Nichols is internationally renowned for his study which, through a scientific evidence-based approach, has shown getting out on the water in a boat promotes rest, with significant physiological and psychological benefits.
He has found that with our lives getting increasingly busy and stressed, boating is the perfect way to unwind and relax.
His research includes the vast cognitive, emotional, psychological, social, physical, and spiritual benefits that we can all derive from healthy waters and oceans throughout our lives.
Through his research, Nichols has identified that the mere sight and sound of water promotes wellness by lowering cortisol, increasing serotonin and inducing relaxation.
Helping people manage
Being on the water promotes physiological and psychological benefits that help manage trauma, anxiety, sleep, autism, addiction, fitness, attention/focus, stress, grief, PTSD, build personal resilience, and much more.
Nichols' study in the US has shown that 84 per cent of parents think their children would be more likely to unplug from their phones and laptops on a boat trip versus a road trip.
On a boat, the feel-good hormones (dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin) go up, while the stress hormones (cortisol) go down.
Waterways give us half of our oxygen, provide people with jobs and food, hold most of the Earth's biodiversity including species and ecosystems, drive climate and weather, regulate temperature, and are the sole source of hydration and hygiene for humanity throughout history.
The world ocean and all waterways, including lakes, rivers, and wetlands (collectively, blue space), cover more than 71 per cent of our planet.
'Critical' to health
Keeping them healthy, clean, accessible, and biodiverse is critical to human health and wellbeing. Little wonder when you consider our brains are 75 per cent water and our bodies are 60 per cent.
Nichols says being on a boat is one of the best ways to access the wellness benefits of the water.
The BIA works with regulators to support our charter to encourage safe, responsible and enjoyable boating in all its forms.
For more information, visit DiscoverBoating.com.au, or on social media via Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter.
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