The UK’s canals are famous for the breathtaking scenery, history and the colorful boats that travel along them, making the canal boating holiday in the UK the most preferred choice for many. However, did you also know that spending time along the canals is an ideal way to improve your mental health as well?
According to research conducted by the UK’s Canal and River Trust, many health care professionals are recommending patients to spend time on the waterways to combat mental health issues, like stress, depression, and anxiety.
Let’s have a look at some of the many mental health benefits of boating holidays in the UK:
The waterways and canal system in the UK is the most popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Aside from the breathtaking views and multiple fun activities to do along the way, the tranquility and peace it offers makes it ideal for your overall wellbeing.
It is a known fact that people are much more relaxed when they are by the water. Just like green spaces, blue spaces are known to enhance your mental state and decrease anxiety and depression.
There has been an increase in anxiety and stress throughout the globe due to the pandemic and the lockdown, which can be damaging to both physical and mental health. Spending time away from daily pressures and getting away from home and work is an efficient way to deal with stress. A canal boating holiday disconnects you from all those stresses and allows you to unwind and relax.
The leisure nature of boating holidays effectively allows you to slow down mentally and provides you with a mindfulness activity of steering the boat along the canal.
Holidays, in general, put you in a good mood. However, if the itinerary includes too many activities, you might end up drained by the time your holidays are over. However, canal boating holidays in the UK are nothing but relaxing. You will leave feeling positive and energised, ready to take on the world.
A healthy holiday spent in nature helps in boosting your wellbeing and your mood. Moreover, a canal boating holiday is also an opportunity to learn new skills, boosting self-esteem and confidence.
This combination of learning, relaxing, and unwinding leaves you in a much better mood.
There are numerous fun activities you can enjoy on your canal boating holiday that can improve your physical and mental fitness. Whether you prefer a pleasant walk, cycling, or running, you would have plenty of opportunities to do so around the many stops on the canal waterways.
These exercises boost overall fitness and provide benefits to your lungs and heart. The fitter you are, the better the mental health you would enjoy.
There is a level of predictability and calmness in a natural environment, unlike a busy road or city. The water along the canal stays constant, and it offers a continual beautiful backdrop throughout the boating experience that helps in relaxing different parts of your brain. This is one of the main reasons why spending time in and near water enhances the physical and mental wellbeing of people.
Book your canal boating holiday in the UK to enjoy the tranquil journey along the countryside, letting your stress and anxiety gradually ebb away. Canal Holiday Boats are all easy to handle and are reliable. We even offer beginner training and other resources to allow you to manage the boat safely.