A new self-care mantra might just be, “Under the sea equals a better me.” Have you ever noticed that you feel better sitting near the ocean or right after stepping out of the pool? Well, you’re not alone in that feeling of calmness and serenity. The Blue Mind Theory says that water has positive effects on mental health.
This “blue mindset” has more than 3 million TikTok posts and continues to pop up in wellness spaces all around the world. Many people understand the positive impact of nature on mental wellness. Bodies of water positively impact the human mind as well. Water helps reduce anxiety, makes you feel grounded, improves sleep and enhances your overall well-being.
Here’s a look at what the Blue Mind Theory is and how you can incorporate this into your everyday life.
What Is the Blue Mind Theory?
The Blue Mind Theory is a science-based theory that says being near, in, on or under water directly connects to a happier, healthier, more connected life. In 2014, marine biologist Dr. Wallace J. Nichols coined the phrase in his book, “Blue Mind.” The idea behind the Blue Mind Theory is that if people better understood that water environments make them feel better, they’d be more inclined to protect them.
“When we go to the beach with our friends and family, we form these deep ‘blue memories,’ that become who we are and pull the stress out of us,” Nichols said in a 2012 TEDx Talk.
Although he passed away in June, his legacy still lives on with the Blue Mind Theory. His work has changed the way people around the world view their connection to water. From entrepreneurs to scientists, people are inspired to take better care of themselves by spending more time by bodies of water.
A TikTok Explosion
Content creators have jumped on the benefits of the Blue Mind Theory. Many show their beach getaways and excursions to tropical oceans. Spending 20 minutes by, in or under the water can immediately improve your mental state and your mood.
@happyplaceofficial What is the blue mind theory? #bluemind #mediation #peaceful #learnontiktok #ocean #sea #wellness #anxietyrelief ♬ Water Sounds – Nature Sounds
The blue mind is the opposite of society’s productivity-focused, hustle mentality, which often leads to burnout. It prioritizes a state of “rest-and-digest,” where you take a break from the hustle of producing and focus on becoming more creative, compassionate and connected.
@skyejhamilton Literally vitamin sea 🥹🫶🏼🌊 #bluemind #bluemindtheory #ocean #vitaminsea #vitaminsea🌊 #beach #beachvibes #oceaneyes #italianbeach ♬ Coastline – Hollow Coves
How to Apply the Blue Mind Theory to Your Life?
The best way to capitalize on the Blue Mind Theory is proximity to an ocean. If you are blessed enough to live near either coast, lean into opportunities to spend time by or in the water. This could look like yoga by the beach, a journaling or meditation session where you stick your feet in the water, or simply walking the ocean at sunrise or sunset. Challenge yourself to jump in the ocean occasionally too.
If you don’t live near an ocean, that’s okay. To find a “blue state of mind,” it’s all about getting near any body of water. Whether it’s a lake, a pool or a river, any body of water can have a positive effect on your mind. You might go for a swim at the local YMCA or walk by the lake or pond near your house.
If water is not accessible to where you live, you can create a “blue” oasis in your space. Instead, you might incorporate a fountain into your backyard or living space. You might add an aquarium or tank for fish to swim in. You can even play the sounds of the ocean, as you relax in a bath. Don’t limit yourself to how you create your own blue space.