Change your life in 20 minutes: Mental health and blue spaces

Previously, we learned that spending twenty minutes “in contact with nature” reduces stress, according to a Neuroscience News article published in April 2019. We discussed how green spaces-spaces with trees, flowers, gardens, forests, etc.-decrease the impact of pollution, decrease stress hormones in the blood, and positively affect our mood. Research shows that we can positively impact our mental health by spending time in blue spaces as well.

Blue spaces contain water bodies, such as oceans, beaches, lakes, and ponds. In color psychology, lighter hues of blue promote calm and serenity, while darker hues promote focus and clarity of thought. In fact, with blue being a primary color, it can also offer a sense of trust and dependability. This brings to mind the phrase “True Blue,” referring to someone who is loyal and reliable, just like the emotions this color evokes.

Additionally, in 2016, Nutsford, et al., published a study in the Health & Place journal. Their research identified a relationship between seeing these blue spaces and decreasing psychological distress. The article points out that as cities grow and develop, we are literally losing sight of our natural backdrop. However, if we intentionally integrate blue spaces into our routines, we will experience a boost in mood and mental well-being.

We also see how water refreshes us spiritually in Genesis 1:1-2, NIV, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth….and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.” In our most anxious seasons, we need the Spirit to pour out assurance, strength, and support. Placing ourselves near blue spaces primes our hearts and minds to receive the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and to accept the divine sense of peace that passes understanding (Philippians 4:6).

Water sounds have perceived therapeutic effects as well. Consider how you feel while listening to raindrops tap against your window. What about when ocean waves crash into the shore? Rachel Buxton, PhD, a conversation biologist from Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada stated, “…an environment that is filled with natural sounds feels safe and allows us to let our guard down.” Some of us could use this feeling of safety when we navigate challenges at work, manage conflict in our relationships, process the news of the world around us, and attempt to get a good night’s sleep.

Because water impacts our mental well-being in dynamic ways, consider how you can invite at least 20 minutes of quality “blue space” time into your daily or weekly. Here are some ideas to get you started:

When you need to focus, play a water sound playlist from your favorite streaming app.

Visit a local lake or spring for lunch.

Order a small desk fountain and place it in your home or office to enjoy during breaks where you can unwind, play small games of crossword and find daily themed answers for it, sudoku, and the like, or even meditate to keep your brain stimulated while you relax. As a result, you might just experience a new calm during your work breaks that you haven’t before.

Next time it rains, enjoy it! Perhaps you pull out your journal, engage in light stretching, or even find stillness as you safely watch the rain fall from your porch or window.

I’d love to hear how 20 minutes impacts you! Connect with me at www.doctorasha.com/hello to let me know how it goes. You can also download deep breathing prompts to practice during your time in nature. Enjoy!

Dr. Asha Fields Brewer is a creator of healthy conversations. As a national speaker and published author, she teaches the busy and overwhelmed how to live life abundantly. She is the owner of Temple Fit Co. wellness agency, which is home to 25-plus wellness speakers and fitness instructors. Tune in to “Temple Fit Devotions with Dr. Asha” on Wednesdays at 4 p.m. on Hallelujah 95.3 FM.