Abstract
Purpose There has been an increase in swimming in natural bodies of water as reported in personal qualitative accounts. However, limited academic research has explored the meaning of this occupation. Engaging with nature, exercising and being part of a community contribute to better mental and physical health. The purpose of this research was to explore the meaning that adults attribute to open-water swimming in natural bodies of water. Design/methodology/approach This study used phenomenological interviews to explore the meaning that five adults attribute to open-water swimming. Findings Open-water swimming contributes to meaning-making in many ways. Participants reported swimming as necessary for maintaining mental and emotional well-being and forming meaningful connections with the social environment, nature and their true selves. Research limitations/implications This study contributes to the understanding of the meaning of open-water swimming for adults in Ireland. Understanding the meaning of this occupation may add to the body of evidence exploring blue-space to promote health. Originality/value Open-water swimming is an occupation growing in popularity. This is the first paper to explore open-water swimming from an occupational perspective. This may provide an alternative perspective for viewing blue-space engagement and understanding the relationship between health, blue-space occupations and our oceans.
Highlights
There is growing interest in promoting blue-space for health and well-being (Britton et al, 2018)
More participants volunteered than could be interviewed for this study
All participants swam for enjoyment, some had competed in events
Summary
There is growing interest in promoting blue-space for health and well-being (Britton et al, 2018). Blue-space may be defined as outdoor bodies of water with the potential of promoting health (White et al, 2020). A systematic review exploring therapeutic interventions in bluespace found evidence supporting the direct benefits of bluespace engagement for mental health (Britton et al, 2018) and qualitative research has shown that participation in “blue exercise” elicits feelings of achievement, mindfulness and connection with nature (Thompson and Wilkie, 2020). White et al (2020) propose a detailed model of the relationship between blue-spaces, participation and health/ well-being. Not written from an occupational science/ therapy perspective, their model, based on a systematic literature review, shows how occupations are embedded in a
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