I have talked a lot about the benefits of greenspace in previous blogs, but ‘blue space’ can also have a positive impact on our wellbeing. The sea, lochs, reservoirs, rivers, waterfalls and ponds are all examples of blue space. Time spent near these can be beneficial to our mental health.
Perhaps it is because water is essential to our very existence that we feel good around it. There is evidence that simply being near water can have a soothing, calming and relaxing effect on us. I guess that’s why when walking in a park we naturally gravitate towards the pond, river, or fountain (if it has one), and why beach holidays are so popular.
The sight and sound of water can be quite mesmerising. The way light reflects off water, accentuating the movement – flowing, rippling, waves, or froth. It draws the eye, and it soothes the mind. It brings you into the present which is a good place to be.
The sound of running or lapping water can also be relaxing. Next time you are in a park or garden and find yourself near a body of water consciously tune into the sound it makes. Take a seat and listen to the water and watch the light playing on its surface. Find yourself relaxing and enjoy a peaceful moment to yourself.
Water of course also attracts life – birds, insects, fish, amphibians…as you’re sitting near water, see who else is enjoying the water – a duck or dragonfly perhaps. Maybe as you peer into the water you will be rewarded by seeing a fish or tadpole. See how many fellow animals you can see. Quite often it is only when we sit still and watch that we are aware of the wildlife around us – even in the city.
Next time you’re out and about, why not seek out some ‘blue space’ and see how it affects your mood.
‘‘Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.’ John Lubbock
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