Episode 53: ‘Healing Waters’- Blue Health and the Isle of Coll
This episode contains contextual references of grief, depression and suicidal ideation. I wanted to let you know upfront, so you can take care while listening. If you or someone you know needs help, you can call the Samaritans at 116 123. It’s free and you can call anytime if you need to talk. Or email jo@samaritans.org.
Let’s look at the transformative powers of travelling to blue spaces, like the Isle of Coll, and the potential benefits of water on your physical health and mental wellbeing.
‘Healing Waters’ is a deep-dive into my own personal experiences with swimming, grief and depression. The story takes you first into my mind, and then on a journey to the Isle of Coll I undertook in search of healing.
We talk about the health benefits of being in or near water, my struggle with episodes of depression and how water has helped me deal with that.
On the Isle of Coll, we spend a week by the sea, explore beaches, bays and coastal walks, and go swimming and snorkelling.
This episode is slightly different from our usual travel stories. I hope you enjoy it!
If you hear anything on this episode that resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you. Take a screenshot of your podcast app and share what you liked about the episode in an Instagram story, leave us 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, or even send us an email. Our address is hello@wildforscotland.com
Resources
What is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)?
What is High Place Phenomenon (HPP)?
Outside/In Podcast: Call of the Void
Read up on the Blue Health research initiative
A scientific paper on the potential benefits of blue spaces on health and wellbeing
An article about the surprising benefits of blue spaces
Make a second trip to the Isle of Coll and listen to ‘Day and Night’, a story about the Isle of Coll from Season 1
Find more ideas for things to do in my Isle of Coll Travel Guide
Disclaimer: All information provided in this podcast is based on personal experiences. Companies mentioned in the story or tips were active at the time of release. If you listen to episodes at a later point, note that this information may have changed in the meantime.
My trip to the Isle of Coll in Pictures















Credits
Written and hosted by Kathi Kamleitner.
Produced, edited and sound design by Fran Turauskis.
Transcript by Kathi Kamleitner.
Social media support by Kirsty Spain.
Cover Art illustrated by Lizzie Vaughan-Knight.
All original music composed by Bruce Wallace.
Field recordings and all photographs by Kathi Kamleitner.
Additional sound effects from Zapsplat.
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