Benefits of Boating

Boating is a wonderful way to spend the day, but did you realize there are many benefits of boating for your health as well.

The American Institute of Stress did a poll that showed that 55% of Americans are stressed during their typical day.

Stress causes many issues in our bodies whether we realize it at the time or not. Stress can cause headaches, a weakened immune system, insomnia, fertility problems, depression, high blood sugar, high blood pressure and so much more. It's no wonder we are trying to find ways to decompress.

Because our brains need to relax they are drawn to things that facilitate that need. Water is one of the things we are drawn to when we are looking for some R&R.

Researchers are seeing many benefits from boating including:

Stress Reduction

Being on the water puts a reset on our brain. When we sit and move with the water we relax more easily and the dopamine and serotonin in our brain increases while cortisol decreases causing the stress to lessen and relaxation to take control.

Higher Vitamin D Levels

We all know we need more Vitamin D. Boating is a great way to spend a day soaking up the sun (don't forget your sunscreen of course). When we spend time in the sun, our bodies get the Vitamin D we need naturally and our mental health and bone health are improved.

Fresh Air Benefits

Like Vitamin D, the fresh air has a calming and happiness effect on our mental health. Being inside in the air conditioning or heat is fine, but we need to breathe fresh air as well. Just a bit of time outside can make a big difference in our health and boating is a great way to spend some extra time breathing in the freshness of the open air.

Connection with Nature

Over the years, we have become more and more disconnected with nature. Electronics, air conditioning and so much more have brought us inside instead of outside. We need to be spending more time in nature exploring and enjoying what God created. A boat ride is a great way to make that connection with the natural world surrounding you.

Slowing Down

The world is fast paced and we feel like we need to keep in step with everything happening around us. Sometimes we need a break to slow down and enjoy the moments rather than just race to the finish. Boating is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend some time just being a part of the moment.

Creativity

Believe it or not the boat will also help release those creative juices. The fresh air, the wide open space of the water and the boat cruising through the day, all impact your creativity. It's like having a blank canvas, the images and ideas that rush into your head are astounding. When you are in the middle of the lake or ocean, the world is your stage and you can think through and create whatever you prefer.

It's for good reason that over 11 million Americans are enjoying the boating lifestyle. If you were looking for an excuse to go out on the boat, you can honestly say it's good for your health! The benefits for boating are enough of a reason to push away from the dock and cruise. Enjoy!