FIND YOUR FLOW

RIDING A WAVE, DIVING INTO A LOCH, OR SERENELY PADDLING 3 234 DOWN A RIVER, THREE WOMEN SHARE THE EXHILARATION AND ESCAPE THEY'VE FOUND IN THEIR PERSONAL WATER WORLDS

- SHARON PARSONS

A fresh wave of scientific evidence has reinforced something most of us instinctively know - spending time in watery environments, known as 'blue space', is good for us. 'In fact, research shows that water is a human being's preferred natural environment,' says Dr Catherine Kelly, whose work explores the relationship between water and wellbeing. 'It makes sense when we appreciate our bodies are largely made of water; there's an evolutionary connection. There are the physical benefits, of course -whether it's striding along a beach breathing in fresh ion-rich air, or giving the body a good workout with a water-based activity - but there are more profound, psychological effects, too. 'Being immersed in water is an immediate, therapeutic experience that engages all the senses,' Dr Kelly explains. 'It brings us back into our bodies and encourages the "rest and restore" state we need.'

A renewed appreciation of nature, particularly water, surged during the pandemic when people felt confined and sought to reconnect with the elements. According to one survey*, stand-up paddleboarding became the socially distanced sport of choice for 614,000 people in 2020, while surfing enjoyed a swell of popularity along the British coastline. Most popular of all has been outdoor swimming, with around 6,125,000 participants diving into seas, rivers and lakes nationwide.

If you're keen to make a splash, come on in the water's lovely! Blue Spaces: How and why water can make you feel better by Dr Catherine Kelly (£10.65, Welbeck Publishing)

The surfer

Stephanie Conway, 31, works in the civil service, and lives near Saunton in North Devon with partner Tom, and collie, Indie.