Recreational Diving Practice for Stress Management: An Exploratory Trial

Area of Science:

• Physiology
• Psychology
• Sport Science

Background:

• Scuba diving shares similarities with meditation and mindfulness practices, emphasizing slow breathing and open monitoring.
• Meditation is known to reduce perceived stress, suggesting potential similar benefits for scuba divers.
• This study investigates the impact of recreational scuba diving on stress levels and mindful functioning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of recreational scuba diving on perceived stress.
• To assess the impact of scuba diving on mindful functioning and overall well-being.
• To compare the stress-reducing benefits of scuba diving with a multisport control group.

Main Methods:

• A recreational diving group (RDG) and a multisport control group (MCG) completed questionnaires before and after a 1-week course.
• Perceived stress, mood, well-being, and mindfulness were measured using auto-questionnaires.
• The stability of scuba diving's effects was assessed one month post-course.

Main Results:

• The RDG showed a significant reduction in perceived stress (p < 0.05), with sustained effects (p = 0.01).
• The MCG did not experience a significant decrease in perceived stress.
• Both groups reported improved mood, associated with increased mindfulness abilities.

Conclusions:

• Recreational sports, particularly scuba diving, improve mood and offer thymic benefits during vacation periods.
• Scuba diving demonstrates greater health benefits than other sports in reducing stress and enhancing well-being.
• The practice of recreational diving positively impacts mental health by reducing stress and improving mindfulness.