‘Freedom on Water’ study reveals long-term benefits of SUP

Research published in journals health care It highlights the importance of nature and blue space activities in improving the mental health of people with mental disorders.

SUP Activities, used with permission from Surf & SUP Denmark (Photo: Jakob Gjerluff, Gjerluff Photography). study: A two-and-a-half-year follow-up study of water freedom through stand-up paddling: exploring blue space experiences and long-term effects on mental health

background

Humans have long used blue spaces and aquatic environments such as oceans, rivers, and lakes for habitat, physical activity, relaxation, and healing. Existing literature shows that activities in blue spaces are associated with improved mental health and well-being.

Many blue space interventions have been launched in many countries around the world, given their positive impact on health and well-being. These interventions primarily involve physical activity performed near, on, or in water.

A project called ‘Freedom on Water’ was launched by Surf & SUP Denmark in 2020 to provide surfing and stand up paddling (SUP) for adults with mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety and stress. .

The main purpose of this project is to allow participants to experience nature and relax from the challenges of daily life. Preliminary short-term analysis of this project showed that participants’ self-confidence, intrinsic motivation, and social integration improved, and their rumination decreased.

In this study, scientists investigated the long-term effects of SUP on the mental health of individuals participating in the ‘Water Freedom’ project.

research design

This study included six women with one or more mental disorders (post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, stress, schizophrenia) (primary participants) and two certified female SUP instructors (secondary participants). A total of 8 participants were included. Start studying. This follow-up study was conducted 2.5 years after the first study (2021). Semi-structured interviews were conducted to assess participants’ long-term experiences with well-being and mental health.

important findings

Analysis of the observational data identified five major themes. Learning: Stepping out of your comfort zone. A break from diagnosis and rumination. Connections with nature and peer groups. And a change in thinking.

All themes overlapped with each other and together they formed a complete picture of participants’ experiences with water freedom..

SUP is an opportunity to expand your horizons

Participants reported that SUP inspired them to start new activities such as group-based nature programs, movie club activities, underwater gymnastics, and meditation.

In general, SUP helps participants recognize their inner resources and increase their self-confidence and social skills, which allows them to collectively explore and apply new activities in their daily lives. I did.

“I especially try to look at water. For example, if I can take a walk by the water, I feel so much better. Then I can imagine myself in a place where no one can reach me. , you can just be in the moment.”

Learning: Stepping out of your comfort zone

Participants reported that it improved their growth and learning process and helped them get out of their comfort zone. They experienced exposure to various hazards, including falling into water, which they found to be challenging, fun, pushing their limits, and informative.

Two project instructors reported experiencing gradual growth in participants over time. According to their observations, overcoming fear and experiencing success increased participants’ confidence and willingness to step out of their comfort zones.

A break from diagnosis and rumination

Participants reported experiencing relief from rumination by focusing on SUP technique and balance. Many participants reported feeling calm, relaxed, and energized for the rest of the day while SUPing.

Connection with nature and peer group

Participants reported experiencing the positive and calming effects of water and nature. They associated water and nature with tranquility, positivity, free space, and a sense of freedom.

Some participants reported that they valued nature more than ever after starting SUP, indicating a change in their perception of water and nature.

Participants reported that meeting and spending time with like-minded people through the Freedom on Water project helped them make new friends. Such socialization also improved their self-confidence and acceptance of their living situations.

Two instructors reported observing participants’ social growth, including making new friends and helping others. Their observation was that some participants took on leadership roles when new members joined the project.

change in mindset

Participants reported experiencing positive changes in their lives that allowed them to accept their reality instead of thinking negatively about it. They were encouraged to participate more in new activities, including social interactions and nature experiences.

Overall, participants reported that “water freedom” improved their mood and sense of well-being and reduced social anxiety.

“On the days when I’m really battling my illness, I go outside and find nature a quiet and peaceful place and just listen to the birds. If you want, you can go to the water yourself and have free space there. So nature has become more than just a natural space, it has become a free space.”

Significance of research

This study shows that the Freedom on Water project using SUP has a long-term, life-changing positive impact on the mental health, wellbeing and social well-being of people living with mental disorders. I understand that.

This study identified five themes that overlapped and worked synergistically to create a holistic picture of participants’ experiences.

This study included a small number of female participants, which may limit the generalizability of the results. Besides SUP activities, other experiences participants have during long-term study periods can also influence their mental health. These factors should be considered in future studies.