As we look out at the grey skies of January, it’s hard not to count the days until spring. We know that feeling, the itch to get back on the water, the wind in your face, and the horizon stretching out before you.
But have you ever wondered why we crave water so much? It turns out, it’s not just about the activity. It’s science.
The Guide to: Red Mind vs. Blue Mind
In our day-to-day lives, many of us operate in "Red Mind." This is the state of constant stimulation—traffic, emails, deadlines, and the troubles of modern life, financial or health. It’s edgy, distracted, and frankly, exhausting.
"Blue Mind" is the antidote. Coined by marine biologist Dr Wallace J. Nichols, Blue Mind is the mildly meditative state we enter when we are near, in, on, or under water. It lowers stress and anxiety, increases an overall sense of well-being and happiness, and lowers our heart and breathing rates.
In short: Water isn't just a hobby; it’s therapy.
Resilience on the Water: Chris’s Journey (Sail Hub)
We aren't the only ones who know the healing power of the sea. We’ve been following Chris's incredible journey.
After suffering a severe broken back, Chris faced a long, gruelling road where both his physical and mental strength were tested to their limits. His challenge had to be paused, a devastating blow for anyone who loves the water.
Since then, Chris has fought through the pain and the setbacks; he is living proof that while the ocean can be tough, the human spirit is tougher.
"Life is our own adventure. Most of us have a plan, but sometimes we don’t get to choose. I had no intentions of being where I am now; water sports were of no interest, I was a speed freak through and through, and life on the edge was my sole purpose. That all changed, abruptly."
"One accident on the mountain bike left me struggling to walk, a fracture of C2 marked my third spinal fracture to date but this was one I wouldn’t bounce back from.. Well, that's what I was told!"
"My love of the outdoors got me on a new train, boats! From here, a new life was born, a new adventure, a new focus and a way to develop myself like never before. Since the day I could walk a mile I started sailing I gained a new passion. No longer searching for speed, I had found my true calling, the search for adventure in untouched lands. years later I'm now a proficient sailor and trained shipwright building myself a boat to take this to the extremes. Arctic exploration, here we come!" Chris, Sail Hub.
Read more about their latest adventure - www.theghostship.uk.
Turning Blue Monday into a Force for Good
This Blue Monday, we are donating to Seaful. Founded by ocean advocate Cal Major, Seaful is on a mission to reconnect people to the ocean. They believe, just like we do, in the power of 'Vitamin Sea' that simple act of getting on the water to reset your mind.
By supporting them, you aren't just helping mental health; you're helping more people discover the freedom of the water."
We also want to shine a light on other vital resources:
Mental Health Foundation - For leading research and support across the UK.
RNLI - Because feeling safe on the water is key to enjoying it.
The Takeaway: Spring is coming. The water is waiting. Until then, take a deep breath, visualise the waves, and remember that better days are just over the horizon.
“We are beginning to learn that our brains are hardwired to react positively to water and that being near it can calm and connect us, increase innovation and insight, and even heal what’s broken.” (Wallace J. Nichols Quotes (Author of Blue Mind), 2025)
"We believe that by reconnecting people to the ocean, we can help them to value and protect it." (Seaful, 2023)
"We believe that by reconnecting people to the ocean, we can help them to value and protect it." (Rowland, 2021)
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