The National Institutes of Health (NIH) July 2025 bulletin has placed open‑ocean swimming in the spotlight, citing substantial improvements in men’s mental health. A recent NIH‑supported meta‑analysis revealed that men who swam in natural waters twice weekly for eight weeks reported a 30 % reduction in stress and marked enhancements in mood. This emphasizes the therapeutic potential of open‑ocean swimming, particularly for men, who typically delay seeking traditional mental‑health support.
The meta‑analysis, commissioned by the NIH and published in its July bulletin, evaluated men engaging in open‑ocean swimming for two sessions per week over eight weeks. Participants reported a 30 % decrease in self‑rated stress and significant gains in mood and mental resilience, compared with baseline. While exact sample sizes and age ranges were not disclosed in the preliminary bulletin, the findings align with broader research on the benefits of “blue spaces”—natural aquatic environments—for psychological well‑being.
“Blue spaces” refer to bodies of water—oceans, lakes, rivers, and coastal areas—shown to confer mental-health benefits beyond terrestrial nature, or “green spaces.” A study spanning 19 countries involving 1,200 open-water swimmers found that wild swimming (in oceans or lakes) offered significantly greater boosts to overall well‑being than swimming in open‑air pools. Psychological mechanisms like autonomy, a sense of mastery, and immersion in nature were identified as key drivers of these benefits.
Mental-health stigma remains a barrier for many men, with reluctance to seek therapy or counseling. The NIH bulletin emphasizes that swimmers can access a low-cost, approachable form of mental-health care—one that avoids clinical environments and instead unfolds in community settings. Unlike traditional therapy, ocean swimming sidesteps stigma and enables exercise, social interaction, and exposure to nature all at once.
Evidence shows that open‑ocean swimmers frequently join informal communities or clubs. These networks can improve adherence and offer informal support—a vital component of male mental wellness.
Swimming is a full-body aerobic exercise that triggers endorphin production and helps lower cortisol levels—effectively reducing stress. Submersion in cool or cold ocean water may trigger an anti-inflammatory response, boost mood through dopamine, and enhance metabolic and immune function. The sounds of waves and the tactile feeling of water provide natural “reset” stimuli, offering meditative moments that help clear the mind and ease anxiety. Overcoming waves and currents fosters personal achievement, a foundational pillar of self‑determination and well‑being—especially significant for men.
Supporting these findings, a 2023 scoping review identified 14 studies that document open-water swimming’s positive effects on mood and mental health. Psychology Today noted that “everyday momentary experiences in blue spaces offer a refuge from daily life.” Another large-scale survey spanning 19 countries confirmed wild swimming enhances well-being more than swimming in open‑air pools, primarily due to autonomy and competence, rather than social bonding.
The Washington Post recently featured accounts from seasoned ocean swimmers and experts, highlighting the mental-health boost of regular sea swims—likening the effect to “forest bathing.” Swim communities emphasize safety, recommending swim-with-buddies, bright caps, and flotation aids to navigate currents, marine animals, and pollution. Dr. Irina Todorov from Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville noted that ocean swimming is “relaxing and meditative,” making it a powerful intervention for stress. Experts recommend new swimmers first achieve comfort with basic strokes in controlled environments before venturing into open water.
These findings have potential implications for public-health policies. Health systems could integrate open‑water swimming into wellness strategies, especially in coastal regions, as a cost-effective, accessible approach to mitigate male mental‑health crises. In light of real and perceived risks—such as currents, pollution, and marine wildlife—NIH recommends supervised swim programs and community education to reduce accidents and increase participation.
The NIH’s call to action is clear: expand access to natural aquatic environments and build community-based swim programs. If a humble dip in the sea can yield a 30 % drop in stress, it’s a health investment worth making.