Blue Space Wellbeing in the Anthropocene: Risks and Responses

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in multi and interdisciplinary research committed to recognising blue space exposure as a transformative, immersive experience that focuses on improving spiritual, physical and mental wellbeing (Gascon et al., 2017; Garrett et al., 2019; Kelly, 2021; Knight et al., 2022; McDougall et al., 2022). In addition, research argues that recreational activities within blue spaces evoke a sense of environmental stewardship, linking place-based
pedagogies and ecological sensibilities with blue space human interactions (Olive, 2016; Wheaton et al, 2021). With the growth in evidence linking blue spaces and wellbeing, and at a time following the significant rise of poor mental health and wellbeing through the COVID-19 pandemic (Buckley & Westaway, 2020), there is perhaps little surprise that blue spaces, such as coastal areas, increasingly feature within research, policy and practise as a practical public health resource (Evers & Phoenix, 2022).Nevertheless, whilst this hydrophilic turn largely celebrates the positive impacts of blue space immersion to health and wellbeing, critics challenge the romanticism that is often expressed by blue space users (Olive 2016). Coastal environments, the core area of this study, can also be risky,
damaging, health-endangering entities, acting as sites of marginalisation, exclusion, oppression, injustice, fear and dislike (Foley et al, 2019). Socioeconomic and racial inequalities in swimming abilities, along with inequalities to usage and access, can also act as significant barriers in usage within demographic groups (Phoenix et al, 2020). Research studies also examine the complex problematic dimensions of climate anxiety, pollution, extreme climatic events and blue space
climate change associated with the Anthropocene. This research will sit within the critical paradigm of blue space usage allowing for a perspectival and reflexive exploration on responses to the manifestations of the Anthropocene by recreational blue space users as they strive for a sense of wellbeing. Research will recognise the political and socioeconomic settings by which these relationships with blue spaces are framed, whilst exploring how our understandings and fears of climate change are articulated in everyday lived experiences of blue space engagement. Investigations will focus on how environmental challenges negate the positive wellbeing effects. When this happens are there temporal aspects? Where this happens are there spatial aspects? How does it articulate as lived experiences with blue space engagement? Under what conditions? Iseveryone effected the same way regardless of their age, gender, experience, ability, etc? This study will explore the range of ways people are navigating their relationship with the sea during the Anthropocene as they strive for a sense of wellbeing.