Well Being | Psychology of the Sea
Have you ever wondered why we are so drawn to the sea and the magnetic force that overwhelms us? We can stare out to sea for hours listening to the water gentle lapping on the sand or the sound of the big gnarly waves crashing onto the rocks. Humans are undeniably intrinsically linked to the ocean and now science is starting to prove why.
Water is the elixir of life. It covers more than 70% of the earth’s surface, makes up nearly 70% of our bodies and constitutes over 70% of our heart and brains. 80% of the worlds population live within 60 miles of an ocean, lake or river. The human foetus still has gill-like structures in the early stages of development and the human body is almost the same density as water, allowing us to float with relative ease. In its mineral composition the water in our cells is comparable to that found in the sea. Water can give us energy, whether it’s hydraulic, hydration, the tonic effect of cold water splashed on the face or the mental refreshment that comes from the gentle, rhythmic sensation of hearing waves lapping on a shore. Immersion in warm water has been used for millennia to restore the body as well as the mind.
We know instinctively that being by water makes us healthier, happier, reduces stress and brings us peace. Scientists have discovered that being in the proximity of open water induces a flood of neurochemicals that promote wellness, increases blood flow to the brain and heart and induces relaxation. Thanks to science we’re now able to connect the dots to the full range of emotional benefits that being on, in, or near the water can bring. And 95% of the earth’s water is still yet to be explored!! We talk to a swimmer, sailor and surfer about how the ocean has shaped them and why it is such an integral part of their being.
The Sailor | James Aiken
How did you discover your passion for sailing?
I grew up sailing on the south coast of England and it’s been an integral aspect of most of my life. I had a period in my early twenties when I didn’t sail much but I realised that having developed such an understanding and intuition with the sea during my youth afloat, sailing was the way I wanted to engage with the elements.
How does being in/on the water affect your mood?
If I am away from the sea for an extended period I definitely experience a desire to be back. An affiliation with it in any way offers a calming and fulfilling affect and in its purest form it soothes any tension that I might have developed, both physically and mentally. With regards to sailing this can be related to the experience itself, clean sea air, amazing views, but also the overcoming of challenges and concise decision making.
For me, engaging with the sea in many different aspects offers the closest connection and highest fulfilment. For example swimming in cold water or surfing a wave may offer the greatest physical sensation and reward but a night alone at sea requires and embodies a deep understanding of the natural forces.
You spend much longer periods at sea than most, do you notice a significant shift in your wellbeing after these extended periods?
It only takes a very short time for my mental state to shift from the thoughts and stresses of modern life to that of nautical serenity, sometimes only the period of time whilst I row from the shore to the mooring. In these times I actively try to be present, notice the textures of the water surface, the smell of salty air and the sounds of water lapping and rigging tapping. This is like a meditation to me, instantly refreshing a sense of clairty.
On my longer trips I feel much more connected to the natural cycles, the astronomical movements and changes in weather, even the change in wildlife as you enter new waters and ecosystems. These are the real things in life and sailing brings me closer to them.
Your favourite place to sail?
Sailing in Norway stands out as the time I have felt closest to a real sense of wellbeing. The landscape of deep fjords and high mountains is an epic stage to pursue your passions and each day felt like a marvel. I swam in cold water twice a day, ate a clean diet and explored remote islands and mountains. The elements rule the lifestyle there with everyday being a balance of meteorological planning and preparation to make the best out of it. I feel I’m more drawn to the higher latitude areas, the remoteness and fewer people offering a pure experience.
The Surfer | Rami Hassan
How did you discover your passion for surfing?
At age 7 we moved from the Middle East to a town near Raglan, New Zealand. It was here that my mother met my stepfather who was, and still is, a keen surfer. Surfing became the main activity which we (my stepfather and I) connected through and within a couple of years I was hooked and found myself prioritising surfing over almost everything! My passion for surfing really kicked in during my late teens during a surf trip to Australia and then Indonesia. During the next 20 years I made repeated trips to Indonesia in search of uncrowned surf.
How does being in/on the water affect your mood?
When the conditions are good, or if surfing with friends, being in the water has a really positive affect on my mood. Any troubles seem to be left at the beach and after a good wave, it’s like there’s a cocktail of feel-good chemicals being released in my head.
You have mentioned ‘flow’, can you explain?
Flow state is when you’re so immersed in something that time feels like it’s slowed down. But on the other hand, before you know it, hours may have past without you realising.
Your favourite place to surf?
I have many, but two favourites have got to be - where I first learnt to surf in Raglan, New Zealand - and a beautiful spot in northern Nias, an island off Sumatra, Indonesia.
The Swimmer | Lucy Williams
When did you start open water swimming?
I’d always loved swimming both in the sea and competitively in the pool at school and college. My parents took us to the south coast to swim in the sea a lot as children. We couldn’t afford foreign holidays in the 60’s!! We swam in all weathers and in all parts of Britain, notably the far north of Scotland where the sea is very cold!! It has only been in recent years that I have started real open water swimming - 6k to 10k regularly.
What are the benefits for you?
Swimming outdoors initially helped a serious back injury (I had to give up running) and prolonged periods of ill health. The mental scars from these physically disabling times are hard to articulate but swimming has helped recovery enormously. It is not until you swim that you understand the benefits. It offers you rhythmic episodes of meditation, times to zen out and be totally in the moment away from the stresses of life - a soothing antidote for anxiety disorders and burnout that huge numbers suffer from in these exacting times. The sea has a particular element for me that surpasses fresh water swimming - the wildness of the waves, the vast panorama of the ocean that stretches before, the salt in your mouth and in your hair, the turbulence and movement of the waves, the wonder of what lies beneath and the reassurance of the sand between your toes as you come to a stop on the beach - a sheer pleasure!
A favourite sea swimming place?
In this country it has to be the Isles of Scilly - what a beautiful place to be. Who needs Europe when we have the Scillies? Calm and tranquil scenery, blue seas and white sandy beaches. The swimming was an organised event where we swam between each of the islands over two days - a total of 22 miles - a brilliant event well supported by kayakers and personnel who provided food and comfort between swims. But there are many, many swimming events organised around the country and abroad - and swimming holidays and camps. Just do some research and look on line. There are also plenty of books detailing coastal and inland wild swimming around the UK and Europe, out of the way swimming spots where you can just take a dip or seriously swim. Your choice!
Do you need to swim long distances and be a crawl swimmer to feel the benefits?
Absolutely not! Anytime spent in the water is a benefit. Breast stroke swimmers have the advantage of being able to see the scenery and chat!!The water is for everyone whatever your swimming style and length of time in the water. Importantly though be sure to know that it is safe where you are swimming and swim with others. Know the tides and currents and keep safe in the water and look out for each other.
Well Worn | Products with greater depth
To get wet you need to get your swimmers on, here are nine of the best brands that are up-cycling ocean waste into cossies, board shorts and bikinis.
Natasha Tonic
This LA based brand launched with the intention of changing women’s swimwear for the better. For decades, swimsuits have been made out of polyester, which is non-biodegradable and bad for the skin. Natasha Tonic hemp swimwear fabric is based around a unique, natural hemp fibre that is anti-microbial, UV resistant, durable and a healthier choice for your skin and our ocean.
Medina Swimwear
An ethical and eco-conscious luxury swimwear brand. Fabrics are ‘Waste-To-Wear’ meaning they are made out of fibres from post-consumer materials removed from global waterways. Medina Swimwear donate a percentage of the sale of every swimsuit to @theoceancleanup, @parley.tv and @restorecoral.
Talia Collins
Preserving sea life has been Talia Collins’s ethos since the beginning and, in addition to using recycled fibres, they partner with The Healthy Seas and Go Greenr, two organisations which focus on preserving our planet. The brand also promotes recycling to help reduce waste by giving a 20% discount to customers who return old swimwear.
Batoko
Batoko swimwear is made from recycled plastic waste intercepted before it is headed for landfill and our oceans. The brand consciously keep collections small, simple and at a sustainable pace that's kinder to the planet and the people that make them. Batoko support the Marine Conservation Society, who work to ensure our seas are healthy, pollution-free and protected.
Naeco
Naeco is a multi-award winning British clothing manufacturer that makes luxury clothing from recycled and ethical textiles. Made from 100% recycled plastic or other sustainable materials, each pair of shorts saves 15 bottles from harming our planet. The brand donates a minimum of 5% of their profits to help ocean charities and organisations all over the world.
Dos Gardenias
After learning that the fashion industry is the third leader of carbon emissions in the world, DG became committed to reducing the company’s carbon footprint by 40%. As a result, the 2020 collections are fully sustainable, and made with earth-conscious fabrics from Italy and Japan. Dos Gardenias also seek to empower women by combining their resources with charitable incentives such as Waves For Water.
Finisterre
Finisterre have been awarded the highly sought-after B Corporation status, given to profit-making companies that voluntarily adhere to strict social and environmental performance, accountability and sustainability standards. More than just a swimwear label, the British brand also develop clothing, accessories and even wetsuits, all without sacrificing their sustainability ethos.
Peony
Every single peony swimwear piece is made from recycled and sustainable fabrics. Nylon waste such as plastic bottles, fishing nets and carpets are collected through various initiatives worldwide and are regenerated into high quality fabric. Peony packaging is made using plant-based materials like cornstarch and wheat, replacing synthetic materials like petroleum.
Bureo
We had to throw in super cool brand Bureo who use recycled fishing nets to make sunglasses, skateboards and frisbees. They work together with fisheries and local communities to provide an incentivised programme to collect, clean, sort and recycle fishing nets into their NetPlus™ material, creating positive solutions for end-of-use fishing nets, employment opportunities for local workers, and funding for community programmes.
