As the year draws to a close, we’re in need of a mood-boosting escape. And the warm fuzzies that accompany the tide on your toes come with a scientific stamp of approval. Dubbed ‘Blue Health’, it’s the idea that spending time around water delivers tangible mind-body benefits. And we’ve got just the island holiday for you to dive right into; Corona Island.
First, What Is Blue Health?
Blue Health is the idea that being near or on water is good for your physical and mental health. And the science supports it. According to research published in 2020, spending time in or near bodies of water can significantly improve your mood and mental state.
In fact, a 2021 meta-analysis even found that blue spaces, whether natural or man-made, in urban spaces “can have salutogenic health benefits, with small but significant positive effects on obesity”.
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Although, spending any amount of time around a mass of water will net you benefits, what could be more effective than quite literally being surrounded by water? That’s where Corona Island comes in.
Where Is Corona Island?
You’ll have to embark on a pilgrimage to get to Cartagena in Colombia (it took four flights from Cape Town), before you board a boat and set off in search of your own private island. In the middle of the Caribbean Sea, you’ll find Corona Island, a luxurious and eco-friendly escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
How Do I Get The Blue Health Benefits On Corona Island?
Secluded from the rest of the world, Corona Island (created by beloved beer brand Corona) offers unparalleled sea views. It’s truly one of the most picturesque places on earth. (You’ll want to capture all of the content, so here are the 125 best vacation Instagram captions to help you snap and share with ease).
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Enjoy Ocean Views Right From Your Bed
Every one of the 10 luxurious yet rustic bungalows has views of the ocean right from your bed. Plus, each bungalow was built so that you get a perfect view of the sunset, every evening.
Relax In Your Own Private Jacuzzi
Want to get even closer and enjoy the ocean sounds? Head onto your private deck and lounge in the jacuzzi. (But before you jet off, shop the trendiest sunglasses and swimwear of 2024).
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And if you’re a fan of the relaxing sounds of waves, you’re not alone. In a social experiment led by 5FM and Corona, the soothing sound of ocean waves emerged as South Africans’ favourite nature tone to relax to, beating out birds at the coast, a waterfall, rainforest birds chattering, a gentle river stream, trees in the wind and more.
Stay Active And Try Out Various Water Activities
It wouldn’t be an island holiday without a wide array of water activities though. Rise with the sun and swim, kayak or SUP around Corona Island to fully immerse yourself in the big blue. Or learn about the ongoing coral reef restoration project and spend a few hours snorkelling over one.
But don’t forget to apply your sunscreen while you’re at it! Colombia is close to the equator and the sun is brutal. Not sure which sunscreen to buy? Here are the best sunscreens for every skin type and situation.
What Are The Benefits Of Unplugging On Holiday?
It’s not just the benefits of the big blue you’ll be netting though. Disconnecting from the world and reconnecting with nature will play a huge role in your rejuvenation and relaxation experience.
You’re on an island in the middle of the ocean with a seven-hour time difference. Yes, there is wifi in certain areas, but because of said tropical island being in the middle of the ocean, it’s not super reliable. It’s actually a blessing, prompting you to leave your phone and unanswered WhatsApps be, disconnect from the outside world and truly connect with the people and nature around you.
From eye strain and poor posture to anxiety and poor sleep quality thanks to blue light, there’s plenty of research to show that excessive technology use can come with a myriad problems. That’s why you’re encouraged to disconnect on Corona Island and immerse yourself in holistic activities that will help you leave the island feeling refreshed.
READ MORE: Here’s Why Corona Island Should Be On Your Active Holiday Bucket List
What Is There To Do On Corona Island?
Of course you can take in the views of the ocean from your bed or jacuzzi and try out snorkelling, kayaking, SUPing and swimming. You know, all those blue health travel activities we mentioned above. But that’s not all, there really is something for everyone on the island.
These were some of our favourite ways to enjoy our time there:
- Morning yoga: Research has shown yoga helps with stress relief, may improve your sleep and help with burnout.
- Reading in a hammock: A 2009 University of Sussex study found that reading can reduce stress by up to 68% (here are 12 books to help you beat the year-end slump)
- Planting mangroves to restore the forests affected by coastal erosion: A 2013 review of 40 studies found that volunteering had a positive impact on mental health, life satisfaction and wellbeing.
- Stargazing: A 2014 study suggested that those who partook in stargazing feel more connected to nature.
- Full body massage: One 2010 review found that massage therapy may have a beneficial effect on cortisol and heart rate.
So would we recommend an island escape to Corona Island to reduce stress, reconnect with nature and come back feeling refreshed and rejuvenated? Absolutely! It truly was a life-changing holiday.
Keen to try out Blue Health travel in SA? Here are 5 more ‘Blue Health’ travel destinations to visit in South Africa.
Find out more at livecoronaisland.com.
Images by Simóne & Vernon
