It’s all over the news, stress and anxiety levels in children are increasing at an alarming rate. While you may have scheduled swim lessons for practical reasons, by all means it IS a great work and vitally important to keeping children safe. Did you also know that swimming can help reduce stress and anxiety as well? Here are a few of the reasons why:
SWIMMING FOR MENTAL HEALTH
Swimming relaxes our bodies. Stress makes our muscles tense up. Swimming stretches and uses those muscles, therefore easing built up tension.
Swimming is meditative. Due to the repetitive movements and controlled breathing swimming requires, swimming is a natural for slowing down the mind and letting the body take control. Plus, the therapeutic value of the water that surrounds and holds you up adds to a relaxed state of being.
Swimming boosts endorphins. While swimming your body releases endorphins—those feel good hormones—that increase positive thoughts and boost a sense of well-being and happiness.
Swimming helps us sleep better. It’s true, most children (and adults) get less sleep than they need. Do you know that lack of sleep actually causes stress levels to rise significantly over time? Regular hops in the pool not only help you feel better during the day it also helps you sleep better at night. Some studies show swimming also increases time spent in deep (think quality) sleep as well.
Swimming is fun. If it’s true, that “laughter really is the best medicine”… then look no further than swimming to cure what ails you or your child. After all, USA Swimming calls it the “funnest” sport for a reason, and the sense of accomplishment when mastering a new skill is priceless.
Ready for your child to reap the many benefits of swimming today? Call us and register! We’d love to see you at the pool.