Blue spaces are like green spaces, but they prominently feature water. And just like their green counterpart, they have a multitude of benefits towards mental health and reconnecting with nature. Whilst Newcastle is an urbanised city, there are still blue places to visit to take your mind off the bustling city.
All the sensations released in blue spaces, from smelling the crisp salty water to seeing the deep blue scenery, can release serotonin and recharge your battery. Some have said sitting by a beach and simply listening to waves colliding has a calming and soothing affect for those with anxiety.
Not to say this can become a cure, but scientists have stated that human interaction with nature is inherently linked to mental and physical health. Staring off into a lake, river or ocean is a good distraction from the busy day-to-day lives of students. Here's where to find them around Newcastle:
- Tynemouth and Whitley Bay are by far the most popular beaches to go to for a late-night BBQ or for some award-winning ice cream. Only a short metro trip away, they offer a variety of things to explore that will put you at ease and reduce depression and anxiety. For example, Whitley Bay has St. Mary’s lighthouse, which is great for spotting sea life and feels like its own island at high tide. In Tynemouth there are the markets, historic Priory and Castle, and Long Sands Beach to discover and relax at.
- Next, we have Jesmond Dene Falls whose combination of green and blue spaces makes this place perfect for a hike to rejuvenate your mood.
- Another beloved blue space in Newcastle is the Quayside, right in the centre of the city, where you can grab a pint from one of the many pubs as well as enjoy a lovely walk by the River Tyne.
- Also connected to the River Tyne is Ouseburn, a small river that is the best spot to see quaint and quirky little boats anchored to the side of the river. Though small, it is a homely area that is bound to lift your spirits.
- Finally, some honourable mentions go to Leazes Lake and the several beaches along the coast of South Shields.
People who live by the coast are the luckiest but that should not stop anyone from visiting these areas to capture the serene depths of the ocean and partake in ‘blue therapy.’
