“It's the experience, it's not exercise”: Blue Therapy for health and mental well-being among adults in the UK

AbstractBackground: Blue Therapy, or cold-water swimming, is an increasingly popular activity associated with enhanced well-being, improved mood, and reduced anxiety. However, the mechanisms that produce these outcomes are unclear. The aim of this study was to explore experiences practicing Blue Therapy from a sample of adults in the United Kingdom. Method: Semi-structured interviews (n=7; self-identified females=6, male=1; Mage=49.17) were conducted. Participants were recruited through snowballing and purposive sampling. The data was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Results: Final superordinate themes, Benefits to Blue Therapy and Therapeutic Ritual, identified key mechanisms underlying cold swimming for health and well-being. For example, sea swimming appeared to generate physical health and reduced pain, improved mood, and emotional control. Sea swimming generated social connections and a sense of belonging to a community suggesting key psychosocial benefits. The ritualistic nature of cold-water swimming facilitated introspection, boosted confidence, and enhanced physical and psychological resilience. Lastly, participants reported a deeper connectedness to nature, suggesting cold-water swimming is a promising form of ecotherapy for well-being. Conclusions: This qualitative study suggests cold-water swimming generates outcomes related to eudaimonia well-being such as enhanced relationships, personal growth, self-acceptance, and connection to nature. The results of this study can be used to inform health promotion programs that utilise an alternative approach to wellness or be used as a form of ecotherapy to improve mental well-being as a prevention health measure or for people with chronical physical and mental disorders.