In 2020 the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (IS Global) carried out 35 scientific studies which found that blue spaces help reduce levels of stress.

If you’ve never heard of the term ‘blue space’ before, you’ve surely seen them plenty of times. They are the beautiful lakes, springs, rivers, and seas dotted around our world.

You may be one of the many people who visit blue spots around the world. Have you ever pondered the question, what makes water a magnet for humans?

Approximately 20 million people visit the Ganges every year, which suggests faith could be the root of the phenomenon.

In our lifetimes, nature leaves us in awe with its powerful and beautiful Iguazu, Niagara, Angel, and Victoria waterfalls.

For as long as time existed, we have been captivated by the horizons of vast lakes and oceans.

Surrounding yourself near lakes and springs tends to calm the mind, body, and soul. Find your calm oasis of blue!

Maybe you feel the need to de-stress this weekend? If so, visit these beautiful blue spaces right here in the UK.

See what the Cardiff Bay Barrage has to offer

Visit the Cardiff Bay barrage in Wales, where you can take your loved ones on a refreshing walk or an adventurous bike ride at the harbour.  

I went here with my mum and siblings after a long, stressful day. This is what she had to say,  “it’s the ultimate destination to relax without distractions.” So why not explore this calm oasis where you can unwind while enjoying a picturesque view of the ocean?  

As I watched my brothers and sisters play hopscotch and tag, I was captivated by the awe-inspiring landscape.

And to round off this evening, a classic quiche with a summery salad sounds delicious to me. A picnic fit for royalty right at the edge of the water.

Visit England’s Lake District

Take a breath of fresh air at the Lake District in northwest England and experience this popular destination well known for its forests, mountains, but most of all its lakes.  

If you thought there isn’t much to do here at ‘The Lakes’, think again. Dive into the challenging kayaking or canoeing activities on Windermere if you’re daring enough.  

However, if those activities aren’t your cup of tea, don’t think you’ll miss out on exploring the beautiful blue lake.  

Take a relaxed trip on a Windermere Lake cruise to learn about the rich beauty and culture of this alluring place.  

Did you know Windermere stretches 10.5 miles, making it the longest body of water in the whole of England?  

While taking in the stunning scenery, you might even learn about the area’s famous writers like William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.  

Sunshine and serenity

Spend some time with your kids at Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, where you can feed the ducks and even spot squirrels if you're lucky.

As you jog or walk around the lake, you'll feel the fresh breeze flutter through your hair.

Enjoy watching elegant swans glide across the deep blue water of the lake, while picnicking in a peaceful environment. It's the ultimate way to enjoy sandwiches and snacks.

Get your heart pumping

According to 'Mind', physical activities release cortisol, "the stress hormone" which helps to manage stress and anxiety.

And those feel-good hormones will make you feel better about yourself which increases self-esteem.  

You’ll also be guaranteed better sleep from an active day, so why not better your mental health by improving your physical health? 

If you’re a thrill seeker, you must visit the Blue Ocean Activities & Adventure in Wales.  

Unleash your inner daredevil by taking part in 14 unique activities and keep your blood pumping with white water rafting at the river where the British White Water Rafting Wales Championships took place in December 2008.  

Feel the ice-cold water splash on the surface of your skin as you conquer the brutal waves coming your way.  

Or put your strength, agility, and endurance to the test with outdoor rock climbing. Gear up and climb your way up to better physical and mental health.   

These activities require you to be courageous, bold, and fearless! Do you have what it takes to complete them?

Why are blue spaces associated with calmness?

With reports suggesting that being surrounded by blue spaces displays signs of improved mental well-being and can even positively impact cardiovascular health, why not put yourself out there and become the best version of yourself this year? 

Personally, these natural, blue, wild spaces never fail to calm and lift me; and maybe you can also relate to that. Maybe we'll never know why we have an attraction toward blue spaces. Perhaps that's the beauty of it. But hey, if it makes us happy, maybe that's the only thing that we need to know!