I really can’t express how much I love a boat ride. I don’t care if it is a canoe, a kayak, a sailboat, an air mattress, a speedboat, a catamaran, a raft, anything on the water…I LOVE IT. When I am on a boat, a feeling of peace and joy envelopes me, reality melts away, and I can’t help smiling. So I got to thinking…this has to be good for my health!
After a little research, here are some healthy reasons to turn-up the summer fun!
Salt Air = No Cares
Benefits of A Boat Ride
Exposure to Vitamin D & Fresh Air – Sunshine provides Vitamin D that promotes healthy bones and is medically proven to improve mood. Many of us spend the bulk of our days in the office, in the commute and in the rat race, that fresh air and the healthful aspects of sunshine truly become a rare commodity. Avoid sunburn…but there’s a lot to be said for soaking up a few rays.
Lowers stress levels: The swooshing and splashing of water, the rhythmic movement of the yacht and the sound of the wind in the sails can all affect brainwave patterns. This relaxes and soothes a busy and highly stressed-out mind.
“If you do not keep your stress hormone within the normal limits, it can weaken your immune system, increase your blood pressure, it can make you fat and it can also affect your cognitive abilities – this is why you need to “disconnect” from your daily routine every now and then and to relieve all that stress. Boating is an outstanding way to connect with nature and with your inner self: there is nothing more enjoyable and more relaxing than feeling the breeze rushing through your hair.” -James Gray
Connect with Nature – Studies show that connecting with the great outdoors is another contributor to overall good health.
Rejuvenate Your Senses – It’s clear that remaining energetic is an important factor to our well-being. Unlike just watching television or playing computer games, spending your free hours on a boat in fresh air, seeing things from a different perspective, maybe even paddling, can lead to increased energy, a clearer mind, and a feeling of balance.
Quality Time with Family/Friends – One of the biggest factors contributing to your happiness in life and your overall well being relates to your social life. In fact, medical studies link strong social ties to longevity, healthier eating habits, less stress and much more. When you step off the dock slip out of your shoes and head out on a boat charter with your nearest and dearest, you just got happier.
Extra Benefits if you leave your phone at home– Chronic health problems such as stress, insomnia and depression have been linked to our lack of ability to power down. In this digital age, it seems we can’t (or won’t) make a move without “checking in,” snapping a selfie, sending a text and staying in touch with the inbox. You don’t want your phone to get wet, so just leave it on shore.
