Seafarer Wellness: Taking Care of Yourself on the High Seas
Seafaring is a demanding profession that can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Long hours, isolation from family and friends, and the constant motion of the ship can all contribute to stress, fatigue, and even depression.
But seafaring can also be an incredibly rewarding experience. You get to see the world, meet people from all walks of life, and experience the unique camaraderie of life at sea.
So how can you make the most of your time at sea while taking care of your health and well-being? Here are a few tips:
Physical Health
Eat a healthy diet. This can be difficult on a ship, but try to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks.
Get enough exercise. Even if you don't have a lot of space, you can still find ways to stay active. Take walks around the deck, do some calisthenics, or follow a workout video.
Get enough sleep. This can be tough with the ship's schedule, but try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
See a doctor regularly. This is important for both your physical and mental health.
Mental Health
Stay connected with family and friends. Use email, phone calls, and video chat to stay in touch with your loved ones back home.
Find ways to relax and de-stress. This could include reading, listening to music, watching movies, or spending time with your fellow crew members.
Talk to someone if you're struggling. This could be a friend, family member, therapist, or chaplain.
Other Tips
Get involved in shipboard activities. This is a great way to meet people and have some fun.
Take advantage of shore leave. When you're in port, explore the city and try new things.
Learn new skills. This could be anything from cooking to playing an instrument.
Set goals for yourself. This could be anything from reading a certain number of books to learning a new language.
Seafaring can be a challenging but rewarding career. By taking care of your physical and mental health, you can make the most of your time at sea and enjoy a long and successful career.
Additional Resources
