There are lots of health benefits to taking a cruise holiday. The health benefits go far beyond just having time to put your feet up or relax on deck.
When people think of cruising, they often associate it with overindulging at the buffet, sitting about or relaxing by the pool.
There are many opportunities to improve your physical & mental wellbeing while on a cruise
It’s Good For Your Brain
Exploring New Places gives your brain a boost!
Visiting new places and experiencing different cultures is said to improve the cognitive functions of the brain.
This can:
- Stimulates brain activity and improves memory.
- Increases creativity and problem-solving skills.
- Reduces stress by breaking away from your daily routine
- Give you a new perspective on life
Statistics: A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that experiences of cultural diversity boost creativity and cognitive complexity by up to 20%.
By taking guided tours, learning basic phrases in a new language, or participating in local activities, your cognitive functions will be improved.
Access to Healthy Foods – A Culinary Adventure!
There is no doubt about it, if you want a cruise where you overeat every day, eat nothing but burgers, fries, and ice cream, you can do that!
There is no need for your cruise food to be unhealthy, though.
There are many different dining options available on cruise ships.
There is plenty of access to fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains – if you wish to choose these options.
You will have the opportunity to try nutritious dishes from around the world, such as stir-fries, tasty soups, noodles, etc.
The large array of food on offer can make it easy for you to choose a more healthy option.
It is good to try exploring different restaurants on the ship or attending cooking demonstrations or any nutrition workshops on offer.
Statistics: According to a survey by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), 70% of cruise passengers said they tried healthier dining options while onboard.
I find that luxury cruise lines and Italian Cruise lines like MSC and Costa offer lots of healthy options.
The Mediterranean diet is full of fresh fruit and vegetables, fish and lean meats. They also make wonderful bread and pizza – not such quite healthy options!
Relaxation and Stress Reduction
I always find that when I am at sea, I feel more relaxed, and stress melts away. I am not alone in this – the ocean seems to have a healing power for many.
I find little more relaxing than sitting on my balcony, watching the world go by.
The sound of waves has been proven to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety – this certainly works for me.
Fresh sea air is rich in negative ions – which is supposed to boost mood and have a positive effect on energy levels.
Being near water can lower cortisol levels and improve mental clarity.
Statistics: A study conducted by the University of Exeter found that individuals who live near the coast report levels of stress that are 22% lower than those who live inland.
Spending time on the deck or on your private balcony to enjoy the ocean views will lift your mood. You can also easily take part in water-based activities, like swimming or snorkelling.
Social Interaction Is Good For Us!
It is great for your mental well-being to spend time in a relaxed environment with friends and family.
It strengthens bonds and reduces feelings of loneliness.
Shared experiences and interactions can improve your mental well-being.
There are lots of opportunities for meeting new people and making friends, if you wish to do so.
Statistics: According to a Harvard study on adult development, close relationships and social connections can improve life satisfaction by up to 20% and decrease feelings of loneliness by 25%.
Participating in group activities, such as dance classes or Yoga, joining onboard clubs, such as choirs or language classes, or attending social events, is very good for your mental well-being.
Take the Stairs – Its Built-in Workout
If you are fit and well, you can take the stairs. I try never to use the lift or elevator when I cruise.
On larger ships, I might easily scale fifty flights of steps a day!
This gives you an easy way to incorporate exercise into your daily routine without really thinking about it. And think of all those extra calories you will be burning off – you will be able to eat more cookies!
Taking the stairs improves your cardio and vascular health. It will strengthen your muscles and joints. It is easy to improve your daily physical activity levels.
Opting for stairs rather than taking the elevator is a small thing you can do to make significant health improvements
Statistics: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that even small amounts of physical activity, like stair climbing, can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by 25% to 30%.
All cruise ships have well-equipped Gyms and exercise classes you can take part in. Gyms are normally completely free, some exercise classes have an additional charge.
Find out more about cruise ship Gyms here:
This is What You’ll Find Inside Cruise Ship Gyms (Waivers, Age Restrictions & More)
Dance classes – Line Dancing, Salsa – all sorts are available. Keep an eye out in the cruise ships daily schedule for details.
Before You Go
Find out about seven embarkation day mistakes that catch out unsuspecting cruisers here:
7 Embarkation Day Mistakes That Catch Out Unsuspecting Cruisers
Find out if cruise ships are really safe for families with children below:
Free Insiders Cruise Line Guide
Ever wondered how the mainstream cruise lines compare? Cruise lines won’t tell you this, but I will.
This FREE guide shows you everything you need to know to find your perfect cruise line.
Whenever I take a cruise I order a print of my trip. It uses the real satellite data from the cruise and is always a great conversation starter!
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