As part of our mission to connect people with the healing powers of the ocean, we are also committed to increasing awareness of the science behind hydrotherapy (aka water or aqua therapy) as well as blue health and blue spaces. Blue spaces refer to bodies of water and the practice of interacting with them in a way that is beneficial for the person while also being sustainable for the environment.
The article, "Blue spaces: why time spent near water is the secret of happiness," discusses how coastal environments have been shown to improve human health, both body and mind. While the benefits of blue spaces, like oceans, lakes, waterfalls, and more, are less well publicized [than green spaces], "the science has been consistent for at least a decade: being by water is good for body and mind. Proximity to water – especially the sea – is associated with many positive measures of physical and mental wellbeing, from higher levels of vitamin D to better social relations."
"The benefits of blue spaces are less well publicized, yet the science has been consistent for at least a decade: being by water is good for body and mind."
Dr. Deborah Cracknell, a marine biologist and environmental psychologist, in her book By the Sea takes a deep exploration into our connection to the sea and the resulting visible and invisible benefits. She writes that it's not surprising given human history that we are drawn to explore the myriad of connections we have with it. "It is a source of food, medicine, pleasure and leisure. And one of the reasons that we seek to better understand our relationship with the sea is that it can have a whole host of beneficial effects on our health, wellbeing and quality of life."
If you are interested in a fun way to add water therapy to your life, check out our Ocean Movement Service where we get together to dance and move on the beach.
Mahalo!
Samantha
Registered Reiki Master | Honu Hydrotherapy