Healing waters: Integrating blue care into recreational therapy practice

Blue care, a therapeutic approach utilizing natural aquatic environments, has emerged as a promising nature-based intervention (NBI) to enhance well-being. This literature review explored the concept of blue care as well as its relevance to recreational therapy (RT) practices. Supported by Ulrich’s Stress Reduction Theory, this review discusses the restorative effects of water that support physical, emotional, and psychological health. Studies demonstrated that proximity to and engagement with blue spaces was associated with increased physical activity, improved mood, reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, enhanced body image, and greater life satisfaction. These benefits were observed across diverse populations including children, older adults, and veterans. Interventions ranged from direct immersion activities, such as swimming and surfing, to passive methods, such as viewing aquatic environments or practicing guided imagery. This literature review highlights the alignment between blue care and RT. Blue care is a unique aspect of NBIs that can be integrated into RT practice. Both approaches emphasize the therapeutic value of engaging in natural environments and share common goals of improving physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. While formal research on blue care within RT remains limited, this review highlights the strong alignment in goals and outcomes. By utilizing blue care as a treatment modality, recreational therapists can enhance client outcomes and promote well-being through aquatic-centered experiences.