Completed diaries captured firsthand accounts of the benefits of freshwater interactions and created a large database of freshwater experiences: from sailing and swimming to sketching by the water’s edge.

This study was one of the first to use diaries to study our relationship with blue spaces. By analysing these personal stories, experiences and emotions, my diary study adds to the growing body of research quantifying the health benefits of spending time in nature.

Overall, my results highlight the potential for lakes and rivers to improve people’s physical and mental wellbeing. Diary entries revealed that participants held a strong appreciation of Scotland’s freshwater environments and consistently felt they gained restorative health benefits such as calmness and improved concentration levels.