Why "Coastal" writing retreats? The beneficial effects of the natural environment and blue spaces

Gemma’s blogs on writing as a behaviour explain how a writing retreat can help you with your writing. I thought I would explain why we’ve chosen to run our writing retreats in coastal locations.

Most people will be aware of the increasing evidence supporting the benefits of natural environments for wellbeing and mental health. Although research shows that people have different preferences for urban and green spaces, it seems that, generally, it takes a shorter time to recover from stress in environments rich in natural components. There have been many theories and studies that highlight the importance of green spaces and the processes at work, but evidence on the impact of exposure to ‘blue’ spaces is also growing.

Blue spaces have been defined as all forms of natural and manmade surface water, which includes coastal environments. Visits to blue space have been shown to have a stronger effect on the positive impacts on mental health than merely viewing blue spaces. A range of theories (such as ‘therapeutic landscapes’ and ‘attention restoration theory’) have been used to explain how spending time near the sea or other blue spaces can enable individuals to enjoy better psychological health. This seems to confirm what most people probably already know - that being by the sea feels good and (especially on the North East coast) can help to “blow the cobwebs away”.

Gemma and I are both lucky to live by the coast and feel that this provides an ideal and inspiring environment for switching off, getting away and focusing on writing tasks. Although most of the day is spent writing, all of our writing retreats take place in accessible coastal locations and (weather permitting) include joining us on a walk by the sea during our extended breaks. Our venues have, however, been chosen for their sea views so that they can be appreciated whatever the weather.

And of course, undertaking some physical activity and movement during the day is important to get the body moving, the blood circulating to the brain and to help you feel re-energised, which means you are ready to tackle your writing tasks and achieve your writing goals more efficiently. We make sure that the schedule for the day includes plenty of space and time to wind down, relax and the chance to take in the sea view, as well as a productive day of writing.

We welcome you to join us at our next retreat and share with us the benefits of a day by the seaside!