I’m in Kelowna this week attending the BC Chamber of Commerce’s annual policy convention, and that means getting up close and personal with one of B.C.’s most popular spots – Lake Okanagan.
And that’s good for my mental health, say experts!
There is a growing body of research showing that being near bodies of water helps mental health. A great piece on Headlight.Health explains why:
- Water creates a sense of awe, discouraging self-interest and enhancing empathy
- Water provides calmness, and can remind of happy, familiar memories
- Water encourages mindfulness and self-reflection
- Water enhances physical activity (no swimming for me on this trip, but enjoying some long walks!)
As Loren Eiseley wrote, “If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water.”
Unless the Ogopogo gets me!
Each week, ICBA’s Jordan Bateman reflects on what we’ve learned as we participate in ICBA’s Workplace Wellness Program. ICBA’s Workplace Wellness Program is helping more than 100 companies and more than 10,000 construction professionals better understand mental health. This program is free for all ICBA members – check out icba.ca/wellness for details.
