June 8, 2026by mvhuyssteen

Blue mind travel – how water changes us

Water quiets all the noise, all the distractions and connects you to your own thoughts

The mildly meditative state that people enter when they are near, in, on or under water, was first identified by marine biologist, Dr Wallace J Nichols. He coined it the ‘blue mind effect’, described as ‘a feeling of calm and tranquility that comes from being close to natural bodies of water’. Whether its listening to the waves breaking, drifting silently along a river or watching marine life, these moments help us step away from our busy lives and get lost in our thoughts. Psychological and physiological benefits reduce stress, increase creativity and provide a general sense of wellbeing.

With oceans covering more than 70% of the earth, perhaps our relationship with water is no coincidence. Not only does water sustain life, shape ecosystems and connect continents – it is beneficial to our mental health!

The colour blue also plays a crucial role. Studies indicate that blue light waves affect our brain in unique ways, lowering blood pressure and heart rate.

Real silence is not an absence of sound but of noise.

The ebb and flow

Along the northern shores of Zanzibar, Nungwi Dreams by Mantis captures the gentle rhythm of the Indian Ocean. Days are slow, shaped by a sunrise over the horizon, barefoot walks on the beach, turquoise tides and warm salty, sea breezes. Here you can experience the meditative calm of early morning swims, a catamaran trip, snorkeling at Mnemba Island or a relaxing sunset cruise.

On the untamed east coast of Madagascar is Sainte Marie Island, home to Mantis Soanambo Hotel & Spa, set in a lush tropical garden overlooking the Indian Ocean. It is one of the world’s most ecologically rich island environments – offering a quiet seascape. The crystal-clear waters are teeming with marine life, including colourful tropical fish, sea turtles and whales during the migratory season. You can meander through mangrove forests and aqua waters, where nature thrives undisturbed.

The quiet isolation of Hawar Resort by Mantis – a 30-minute boat ride from Bahrain’s mainland – also provides a slower pace. Surrounded by pristine waters that support a vibrant ecosystem and serene island landscapes, you can begin your mornings with sunrise yoga or simply absorb the stillness. Water based activities include kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, snorkelling, aqua buggy excursions and aqua aerobics. It’s in places like these that wellbeing is found in the surroundings: The sound of water, uninterrupted horizons, and the time to sit and relax.

On one of the world’s most remote inhabited islands, is Mantis St Helena which offers a rare kind of escape. Encircled by the vast South Atlantic Ocean, St Helena has dramatic, changing landscapes. Around 750 marine species have been recorded in the island’s waters, 50 of which are endemic. The island has a resident population of Pantropical, Spotted, Bottlenosed and Rough-Toothed Dolphins. Rugged coastal walks and endless ocean views remind us of the connection between nature, solitude and emotional renewal.

The ocean, healthy rivers, lakes and wetlands are good for our minds and bodies

Let the river run

But ‘blue mind’ experiences are not limited to oceans alone. In Botswana’s Kalahari region, waterways bring life, movement and reflection to the landscape. At Feline Fields by Mantis, you can silently drift through reeds and waterways on a traditional mokoro, listening to birdsong and the gentle rhythm of nature.

There’s a similar sense of calm aboard the Zambezi Queen by Mantis, where river safaris transform travel into a meditative journey. As the boat glides along the Chobe River, wildlife gathers at the water’s edge. These are moments that turn into lifetime memories.

Take a breath

The connection between wellness and environmental awareness is becoming increasingly important in travel. Oceans regulate climate, sustain biodiversity and support communities, while coastal and marine ecosystems provide some of the planet’s richest natural habitats. Oceans also contribute to global oxygen production and marine plants, particularly phytoplankton, generate about 50% of the oxygen we breathe.

World Oceans Day 2026 – celebrated on June 8 – encourages us to protect our blue planet. To not only embrace the beauty of our seas but to take responsibility to preserve and support ocean conservation for future generations.

Embrace the blue

Whether it’s the hush of the ocean, the solitude of a remote island or the gentle flow of an African river, water reminds us to slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect with the world around us. ‘Blue mind’ travel is about rediscovering balance and remembering how deeply connected we are to the natural world.