Fishing As Stress Relief
In today’s world, everyone of every age is under stress. We have deadlines to meet and obligations to fulfill. At times it can be completely overwhelming. We all look for ways to get away from it all and take a break from the hectic pace. Fishing can be one of the best ways to do that, and the barriers to entry are very little. Now, it can be said that fishing can be as expensive as you let it be, like most hobbies. But you can also start out with a very meager budget and have everything you need. One stop at a big box store such as Amazon, and you can walk out with a rod and reel combination, already spooled with line, a few hook, and some sinkers for under $40. Now all you need to do is stop at the local bait shop and grab some minnows. Or you can even dig up your own worms to use for fishing. The people at the local bait shop will even tell you some good places to fish (they will want you to be successful, so you keep fishing, so you keep coming back to buy more bait!).
Many studies have shown the benefits of spending time outside. In some countries, doctors have actually taken to subscribing time in the outdoors as a way to combat stress. Still other studies have looked at the benefits of water on overall health and well being. Spending time on or near water, especially running water, brings a sense of calm and relaxation. It can help reduce anxiety and depression and even pain sensations for some. Being near the water improves mental focus and can even improve sleep quality. Water can inspire people as well.
Being out fishing can give you time alone with your thoughts. Sitting on a pier or shore next to the water and casting out a line, we can take time to not only be present in that moment, but to take in the beauty that surrounds us on a daily basis. The things we often take for granted come to the forefront when we are fishing. The beauty of the trees, the breeze on our face, and getting close to wildlife are all part of the experience. There is nothing more peaceful than sitting on the bank listening to a loon cry far off in the distance, and this is a common occurrence in many places while fishing.
Fishing can also give us time with friends of family, bringing us closer together. We can cheer each other on as we reel in a big fish and we can all bask in each other’s accomplishments during good fishing times. In the slower times, we have time to talk about the things in life that matter, to sort through problems, and to reconnect. All of these things help with stress as well.
Fishing gives us a chance to rekindle our curiosity about the world around us, which we often leave behind in childhood. As we trek off to a stream or isolated lake, we see and hear all sorts of things that pique our curiosity. We leave our normal stressors behind and immerse ourselves in these new experiences.
Fishing is one of the best stress-relievers in the outdoor world. Grab a pole and some worms and head down to the creek and see if you don’t agree.
