We know that an apple a day may keep the doctor away, but are there extra benefits from eating that apple on a boat? According to psychiatrist Dr. Sue Varma, who practices in Manhattan, being out on the water may help keep us mentally healthy.
We instinctively know that sitting at a computer and interacting on social networking sites isn?t as good for you as getting out on the water. Whether the boating activity is leisurely cruising on your powerboat, or on a dinghy racing a gale, time spent on a boat may keep you sane.? Dr. Varma elaborates, ?I often encourage people to exercise, to seek social support, to schedule activities and limit time on TV and computer. Outdoor sports combine all these prescribed treatments.?
Those suffering from mental health problems often find themselves isolated, and the social side of boating cannot be underestimated. Joining others for a drink in the yacht club after an outing is part and parcel of why some boaters head out in the first place. Rafting up with friends makes boat ownership appealing to others. Even singlehanded round-the-world yacht racers require regular contact with a shore team!
The head of a sail training organization once described sailing as taking ?the me out of you.? ?Dr. Varma agrees, stating that ?socialization is one of the cornerstones of mental health.? However, she cautions against excess alcohol as a social lubricant. ?Many of the patients in my practice boat to relax ? but some tend to drink a lot during it. Be careful that the drinking doesn?t take a life on of its own.?
Do those engaging in extremely energetic activities such as white water canoeing derive more mental health benefits than a shoreline kayaker? No? even gentle activities such as a leisurely sail can be as mentally positive as a blast on a racing dinghy, but in different ways. Dr. Varma notes, ?Physical activity that is more demanding elevates the heart rate ? promoting heart health, increased oxygenation, lower blood pressure, and a release of endorphins. However, more sedentary sports can be calming, relaxing and be beneficial for other reasons, as long as we are mindful.?
Research shows that those who keep mentally active may ward off the ill effects of aging, in the same way as someone might prevent cardiovascular illness through physical fitness. Per Dr. Varma, ?The concept of flow implies being absorbed and in the moment. It can be good when one is aging to promote concentration and memory.?
However, as in other areas of life, mental benefits come from moderation and balance. Dr. Varma counsels, ?Being a weekend warrior on a regular basis doesn?t help anyone. It?s good to alternate exhilarating weekends (particularly those that may include heavy partying) with more restful, relaxing activities. You don?t want to burn out! During the weekend, schedule some down time. Balance is always key?don?t burn the candle at both ends.?
However, an evening at anchor, gazing at the stars as candles glow softly on the deck, does sound like a prescription for mental clarity.
By Richard Shrubb
Filed under Features ?
Source: http://boatingtimesli.com/NY/mental-fitness-through-boating/
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