What could be more magnificent than sailing in the beautiful waters of the world – whether it be on holidays or as a regular event. Sailing takes us back to one of the very first ways of travelling… down the river, over the lake or harbour or across the seas… to locate our produce, navigate by the stars, meet other people and explore new places. This is the adventure of sailing that stays with us today. These excitements aside, sailing in itself has a myriad of health benefits that will make and keep you active for years.
Health benefits include:
"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 from whence we came.”
- Improves cardiovascular health All that physical activity moving about the boat, hoisting, docking, pulling and stretching builds our cardiovascular fitness and reduces the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke and heart attack.
- Improves concentration Sailing requires lots of focus and concentration - you're in the elements with your sailing boat and team. How can we make this all work? It's great for working the brain
- Enhances communication skills Sailing requires good verbal and non-verbal communication as it takes a collaborative effort to get things done. You get better at being clear quickly and reading cues.
- Promotes spatial understanding All those calculations in the moment about where the boat is and is going and at what speed, amidst its surroundings, builds great spatial prowess. It will also translate to the land.
- Boosts our brain and mental health The negative ions of salty sea air boosts our capacity to absorb oxygen and balances our serotonin level, which relieves depression and energises us.
- Connects with nature When sailing, you fit in with the sea, the sun and the elements. Your timetable becomes more attuned to sunrise, sunset, the stars, water and the sky. The sounds of wind in the sail and the splashing and lapping of water is deeply relaxing.
- Enhances physical prowess Manouvering around a boat and adapting to the variable movement of the water requires "sea legs" and a sense of balance and core strength. You will also build muscle, strength and improved coordination.
"At sea, I learned how little a person needs, not how much."