Sailing is often taken as a hobby rather than a sport. However, sailing is not only a fun activity to do on a holiday with your near and dear ones rather it is a great way to remain fit and also to get a toned body. Sailing is not only beneficial for the body but also good for the mind and soul as well. You can achieve an excellent fitness regimen while having a tremendous time under the sun. Nevertheless, there are several benefits of sailing and here are some of the health advantages of sailing.
1. Physical fitness - The constant task of pulling and hoisting a sail to keep the boat in the right track strengthens and builds muscles of the upper and lower extremities, trunk and abdomen. Therefore, sailing improves nimbleness, flexibility and endurance of the body.
2. Cardiovascular fitness - Just like all physical activities and sports which helps to stay us fit, sailing activities also decreases the risk of heart disease and hypertension, lower cholesterol levels, and reduce risk for obesity. Like all muscles, the heart grows stronger with exercise, so it can pump blood more effectively throughout the arteries and veins of the body and also work at maximum rate with less effort. Those who exercise also have a slower resting heart rate due to less effort needed to pump blood.
3. Psychological - Why are people always in a jolly and pleasant mood while out on the water? Aside from the natural calming effects generated by the sounds of the waves and the wind, the saltiness in the air also contributes to that feeling of euphoria. The various moods of an individual are greatly affected by a neurotransmitter called serotonin, a chemical substance that is known to produce a happy feeling. The saltiness of air is comprised of charged ions which promote oxygen absorption in the body, thereby producing a more balanced serotonin levels. The more balanced the serotonin levels in the body are, the greater the sense of happiness.
4. Relaxation - The sound of the wind and waves, splashing water, the cadenced movement of the boat, and the feel of breeze on your face stimulate the brain wave patterns in ways that promote a relaxing and calming effect to a person. The body and mind are alleviated from stresses and anxiety as one becomes relaxed and focuses on the fun and exciting tasks.
5. Concentration - Sailing helps to enhance concentration skill. Sailors need to stay focused and mentally alert to perform the multiple challenging tasks at hand. In this way the concentration level of a person is developed as well as improved.
6. Communication - The captain and his crew must act as a unified unit in order to control the boat effectively. In order to do this they need to learn how to communicate effectively especially through non-verbal means. You can also have a good sense of cooperation and teamwork when you go on a sailboat. Everyone on board has a crucial role to play in order to keep the ship afloat.
7. Agility - The various tasks associated with sailing also helps improve your flexibility and agility. Activities like pulling lines or hosting sails can significantly improve your hand and eye coordination skills as well as your motor skills.
8. Organizational skills - Being on a ship requires that everything be kept in “shipshape.” You will become more organized in your personal life, which will boost motivation to eat healthier, exercise more and increase your quality of life.
9. Awareness - Sailor must be aware of the dimension of the boat along with the space required for the directional of the boat. By sailing, you can have an increased understanding of how much space something requires. However, this skill translates to skills required on land as well such as driving.
10. Lowers stress levels - The splashing sound of the water, the rhythmic movement of the yacht and the sound of the wind in the sails can all affect brainwave patterns. This helps in relaxing and soothing a busy and highly stressed-out mind.
11. A chance to learn - Sailing a vessel requires mastery of many skills such as leadership, navigation, ship handling, sail trim, meteorology, cooking, mechanical, electrical, plumbing troubleshooting and repair, rope work and line handling, and drinking. Many of these skills are useful on dry land as well.
In addition to the above health benefits, sailing provides an opportunity for people to socialize and spend time outside with a positive ambiance. Sailors belong to an active, diverse and dynamic enthusiast group. Furthermore, sailing creates a sense of healthy and strong appreciation for nature.