6 Reasons Why a Scuba Diving Vacation Should be on Your List this Summer
The point of taking time off is obviously to relax, let go of the stress of day-to-day living, and just do nothing. Like 75% of Americans will tell you, that’s precisely what they do when on holiday. But, this summer, if you would like to combine napping and sunbathing on the beach with an introduction to the wonders of nature, consider a scuba diving vacation. It will interest you to know that this activity has caught on in a big way and according to Quora; between 2.7 to 3.5 million people in the country are trained in recreational scuba diving while 11 million go snorkeling to explore shallow seas.
In case you’re wondering why diving has become so popular, die-hard enthusiasts will talk to you about the many positives of testing your mettle against the ocean. Here are some of them:
1 – Let’s Begin with the Obvious – Marine Life is Fabulous
A scuba diving vacation takes you to a stunning environment which is absolutely different from the one you’re familiar with. The flora and fauna of the seas will enchant you with their rainbow of colors. Immerse yourself in this surreal world and you’ll learn to appreciate the importance of conservation and understand the damage we’re doing to its delicate biomes. You will experience the thrill of encountering new creatures with every excursion and revel in the grace with which they move that is almost like slow-motion.
Underwater exploring is now possible in various locations both on the east and west coast, and on lake shores. You could also consider visiting locations outside the country. For instance, you could go Scuba diving in Cozumel in Mexico, Anacapa Island in California, Bonaire in the Dutch Caribbean’s ABC islands, and the Dry Tortugas National Park Key West, Florida. And, these only a very scarce few of your options.
2 – Floating in a Weightless Environment Relieves Stress
When you enter the world of the oceans, you’ll understand that the laws of physics here are completely unique. Time and space seems to move in a different way than on land. Sound travels more slowly and is muffled. You will be surrounded by utter silence that is broken only by the sound of your breathing apparatus and the bubbling of air. The water buoys your weight so you feel like you’re floating making only gentle movements. And, if you didn’t wear instruments, it would be hard to guess which direction leads back to the top. The peace becomes so intoxicating that you almost hate the idea of having to come up. Check out this feature on The National that compares a scuba diving vacation to meditation and complete relaxation.
3 – Connect with Loved Ones with a Digital Detox
If most of the family time in your home involves quality bonding with digital devices, this summer, suggest going for a scuba diving vacation. Or, snorkeling expeditions that don’t need extensive training. Take an enforced break from cellphones, laptops, and tablets and instead, focus on having fun together. You’ll disconnect from the constant barrage of phone calls, emails, and internet distractions and you may find that spending time with loved ones is so much more satisfying. And, nothing brings a family closer that the delight of discovering a whole new universe.
4 – Spending Time in Water Restores Mental Harmony
Results of studies conducted at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that swimming and hydrotherapy help your body heal from many ailments. Conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, joint pain, and muscle spasms are only some of the conditions that respond well to exercising underwater. You may also find that enforcing slow, deliberate movements and feelings of buoyancy help relieve anxiety and depression. If you’re looking for the perfect escape that provides you overall well-being, a scuba diving vacation could well be one of the best options.
5 – Immerse Yourself in Nature
Connecting with nature or ecotherapy as the activity is also called brings you various physical, psychological, and mental benefits. And, given that oceans cover 71% of the earth’s surface, you’ll find nature at its supreme, untainted best. Like many experienced divers will tell you, it is almost enchanting to see how nature can absorb manmade objects like ships resting on the seabed and turn the wrecks into a part of the biome. Many sunken ships have mini-ecosystems inside and around them and it is truly fascinating to see how coral and other sea creatures inhabit them without seeming to notice. It will amaze you to know that the oceans are home to around 10 million species of plants and animals and only 1 million have been discovered as this article on PADI describes. Plan a scuba diving vacation this summer and you’ll find your life enriched in many ways by encountering many magnificent creatures in all shapes, sizes, and colors.
6 – Scuba Diving is Easier than Most People Think
If you would like to learn a new recreational skill, diving could be a great choice. Any person young or old with reasonable levels of fitness and knowing how to swim can learn. You can start off with an easier option like snorkeling where you’ll swim in the shallow sections and practice holding your breath. As your lung capacity improves and you can remain underwater for longer periods without having to come up for air, you can progress to diving. Diving is not exactly similar to snorkeling because you’ll habituate to breathing with oxygen tanks and scuba gear. But you’ll develop an understanding of how water works and the basics of moving, signaling, and using underwater instruments.
While lying back on the beach, working on your tan, and swimming lazy laps seem like the perfect activities for the summer, consider taking your vacation to the next level with snorkeling and scuba diving. Try it once and you’ll wonder why you spent entire holidays lounging on the beach. For sure!
