Healthy Oceans Healthy Minds

Explore the wonders of our blue spaces and forge lasting connections with our wild waters through Healthy Oceans Healthy Minds!

Healthy Oceans Healthy Minds is an annual celebration, held in summer, which showcases Northern Ireland's captivating blue spaces and highlights the mental health benefits of engaging with our coastal and inland waterways.

Healthy Oceans Healthy Minds is more than just a campaign; it's a movement that brings people together to enjoy and preserve the incredible blue spaces of Northern Ireland. Whether it's paddleboarding, practicing beach yoga, or participating in educational talks, the campaign invites everyone to dive in and experience the rejuvenating effects of water on your well-being.

The Importance of Blue Spaces

According to a 2021 report by the Mental Health Foundation, 65% of adults in the UK reported improved mental health after spending time near water. Yet, the health of these precious waterways is increasingly threatened by pollution, particularly marine litter. Findings from Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful's 2021 Marine Litter Report are alarming, with 762 items of litter found per 100 meters of beach surveyed—81% of which contained plastic.

The 2024 Campaign

Live Here Love Here delivered the 2024 Healthy Ocean Healthy Minds campaign throughout August. During this time, we encouraged all to take a break and recharge by participating in one of our waterscape events. 

The 2024 campaign included over 65 events across Northern Ireland, from sailing lessons, foraging sessions, beach-sound healing, paddleboarding, sand art, bouldering, boat trips, and much more. Thanks to everyone who facilitated and took part. Looking forward to 2025!

Acknowledgements

Thanks to funding from Belfast Harbour all Healthy Ocean Healthy Minds events were free of charge in 2024. Learn more about their work here.