Scuba diving has several human benefits, including increased flexibility, mental health, improved blood circulation, and burning of around 500 calories per session. It has also been shown to have positive effects on the environment. Scuba divers have also been known to become more aware of the oceans’ importance. This awareness can lead others to get involved, which can positively impact the future of the oceans.
Improves Mental Health
There is a growing body of evidence that diving can improve mental health. In a study from the University of Sheffield, 15 male veterans were evaluated on their mental health, and their experiences of scuba diving were compared to their peers. The researchers used a General Health Questionnaire, interviews with participants and their family members, and other measures. The results showed that diving was helpful for these men, who reported fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression and reduced insomnia. Additionally, those who suffered from psychological injuries were found to experience a more significant reduction in negative feelings.
The majority of treatment options for depression and anxiety include psychotherapy and medications. However, diving may have a profound effect on mental health, especially for those who are already on a medication regimen. Some medicines may affect the brain’s ability to think clearly, while others may alter mood and behavior. Some of these drugs are very potent, and those taking them should exercise caution when diving. If any of these symptoms persist for an extended period, the person should seek professional help and stop diving until the problem is resolved.
Improves Flexibility
Scuba diving like the Cayman Islands scuba diving requires flexibility and balance, and stretching regularly can help a diver maintain this level. Good flexibility helps a diver avoid injuries, as a tight hamstring will make it more difficult to straighten the leg and extend the knee joint. Stretching can also help a diver improve their strength.
The more flexible you are, the easier it will be to put on your wetsuit and fins, reach behind you for dropped items, and enter or exit the boat. A lack of flexibility will also make turning difficult.
Improves Blood Circulation
Poor blood circulation is a significant risk factor for many diseases. Scuba diving can help you reduce the risks of heart disease and stroke by increasing blood circulation in your body. The underwater pressure gradient causes all your muscles to work at once, opening blood vessels to provide your body with oxygen. This improved blood circulation can also help you reduce stress levels, which can affect your body negatively. Stress can increase blood pressure, cause headaches, and cause trouble sleeping. It can also lead to depression and heart disease.
The pressure gradient underwater forces the heart to work more vigorously than it would in dry air. This increased blood circulation allows your muscles to perform at a high level, flushing out toxins and boosting your immune system.
Instills a Sense of Confidence
Scuba diving is a great activity to help you build your confidence. As you become more experienced, you’ll be able to dive into different situations and improve your skills. While underwater, you’ll be able to control your breathing, which will help you remain buoyant. You can even control your speed and frequency of breaths.
Scuba diving is an excellent exercise to help improve confidence, especially among veterans. Being in the water adds a natural sense of tranquility to the person participating. This tranquility, paired with the sensation of weightlessness, can help reduce stress. A recent study compared recreational scuba diving to a multisport course and found that scuba diving had a more significant effect on reducing stress than any other recreational sport.
It Makes You Feel Like a Lone Ranger
Scuba diving can be a lonely experience, but there are some things you can do to make it less lonely. First, you can dive with a partner. This will keep you safe and make sure you don’t miss anything. During your dives, stay within a few meters of your buddy. It also helps to slow down and breathe slowly. Doing this will reduce your air consumption and increase your chances of seeing cool things underwater. You’ll also avoid scaring off marine life by not being too flustered. Flustered divers are more likely to scare away marine life and not appreciate the ocean’s ecosystem.
Instills a Sense of Community
Scuba diving is a sport that brings people together in the water to explore the ocean. While it can be a great place to meet new people, it can also help foster a sense of community and camaraderie among divers. One study showed that scuba diving could help combat psychological and emotional stress. Many divers say they feel more comfortable in a group environment while diving, which makes the experience more rewarding.
Scuba diving can also be a great form of therapy for many veterans. The weightlessness of the water can help relieve chronic pain and encourage confidence. This sense of community is essential to healing and is why scuba diving has become popular with veterans. Those who have PTSD should consider taking part in therapeutic scuba diving.