Ocean Therapy

Exploring the Calming Effects of the Sea on Mental Health.

Amid the cacophony (ooh we whipping out the big words today) of notifications, deadlines, and expectations, finding peace can seem like an unattainable dream.

I’ve had moments of utter peace in my life – blips amongst the hustle and bustle of it all. The most recent was on my honeymoon with my husband earlier this year, where we jetted off to the Maldives and disconnected from the world for a week. There was something utterly freeing about leaving the exercise-tracking watch at home, leaving the phone on airplane mode, and being fully present in the now. Being ‘present’ is something I’ve been intentionally cultivating in my life lately, and it doesn’t surprise me that my most recent brush with this was near the sea.

For centuries, humans have sought refuge in the vast expanse of the ocean, finding solace, healing, and profound tranquility within its azure depths. Call it a type of therapy – no, really! The concept of “ocean therapy” is not a new one; it's an ancient remedy deeply woven into the fabric of human existence, offering a beacon of hope for those navigating the turbulent waters of mental health.

‘Ocean therapy’ harnesses the power of the ocean and water sports to enhance the lives of individuals living with neurological and physical disabilities or conditions.

The allure of the ocean taps into something primal within us humans, evoking a sense of wonder and awe that transcends… well, everything. There are no words to truly describe the profound serenity that washes over us as we stand before the endless horizon, listening to the rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore. It’s a reminder of our insignificance in the face of nature’s boundless power yet is somehow also a source of immense comfort and reassurance.

It’s just a sense of knowing. Like President John F. Kennedy once was quoted saying, “And it is an interesting biological fact that all of us have, in our veins the exact same percentage of salt in our blood that exists in the ocean, and, therefore, we have salt in our blood, in our sweat, in our tears. We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea — whether it is to sail or to watch it — we are going back whence we came.”

Fun fact: In 1897 French physician Rene Quinton discovered a 98% match between our blood plasma and sea water, or what we called ‘ocean plasma’.

Science, too, backs the therapeutic benefits of the sea. Numerous studies have demonstrated the profound impact that coastal environments can have on mental well-being. Our ocean’s gentle ebb and flow have been shown to induce a state of relaxation, triggering the release of endorphins and reducing levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. The negative ions abundant in sea air have been linked to improved mood and mental clarity, offering a natural antidote to the relentless barrage of modern-day stressors.

For many, the therapeutic benefits of the sea extend beyond mere relaxation; they serve as a lifeline in times of darkness and despair. From veterans grappling with the invisible scars of war to individuals battling the demons of anxiety and depression, the ocean offers a sanctuary free from judgment or expectation—a place where healing can begin. From surfing and swimming to simply walking along the shore, each interaction serves as a gateway to self-discovery and personal transformation. In the embrace of the ocean, barriers dissolve, and the soul finds refuge in the boundless expanse of blue.

Breathe in.

Breathe out.

Feel a little looser? A little lighter? A little calmer?

I know I do.

It is important to acknowledge that ocean therapy is not the answer for all mental health ailments. While it can offer profound healing, it is but one tool in the broader arsenal of therapeutic interventions that are available. Yet this is another reason to protect this environment – we need to safeguard the very source of solace that so many rely on. Climate change, pollution, and overexploitation threaten to irreparably damage our oceans, depriving future generations of the healing power they will so desperately need.

Ocean therapy is a testament to the enduring power of nature to nurture the body, mind, and soul. Whether through a leisurely stroll along the shore or a moment of quiet contemplation by the water's edge, the ocean beckons us to include its therapeutic embrace. Are you listening?