The Many Benefits Scuba Diving Provides for Those with Disabilities

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Various types of disabilities may limit people from performing functions that other people can. However, when it comes to scuba diving, the tables can quickly turn. The nature of being underwater is a feeling like no other, and it requires skills that are not tied to a person’s physical abilities. This is why learning to scuba dive is becoming a popular option for people with disabilities, as well as those who are experiencing some form of PTSD and seeking treatment options.

Swimming in itself is an experience like no other. It is an excellent form of physical exercise for the body, and it keeps all persons in shape. When coupled with scuba diving in Colorado, people with disabilities can reap many different benefits.

More flexibility, increased movement, and improved sensation

Disabled persons are often able to move more freely under water than they would on land. They get a feeling of flexibility and freedom that they would rarely get anywhere else. This often relates to being able to use muscles that are often restricted by the force of gravity. Additionally, people often report improved sensation in areas where their disability has left no or little sensation.

When scuba diving, they also enjoy the view of underwater creatures such as shoals of fish and up close and person experiences with the cool critters at the Denver Downtown Aquarium.

Adaptive Scuba provides freedom in the different environment

When scuba diving, disabled persons can enjoy a unique experience that they otherwise wouldn’t get while on land. The feeling of being immersed underwater, swimming independently, and enjoying the freedom of a new environment is often therapeutic. It is regularly used as a form of physical therapy for wounded veterans and others with a disability seeking to improve functionality of specific body parts.

Anxiety relief

Scuba diving is increasing in popularity as a form of anxiety relief and treatment for disorders such as PTSD. For many years, the traditional treatment methods that include drugs and exposure therapy have proven to be unpopular among veterans. As a result, alternative treatment methods, such as scuba diving, are being increasingly sought after.
Scuba diving is one of the top options for veterans because it allows them to focus on something new, different, and exciting. It relieves the anxiety that they associate with their previous experiences and they can redirect their energy to new focuses. In addition, just like in the military, they get to buddy up with someone they know and trust.

A sense of control

With scuba diving, disabled persons feel more in control of their bodies and abilities than when they’re on land. Through the experience, they feel like they can do what any other able-bodied person can do. This is important in boosting self confidence and a sense of self-belief.

Are you ready to Scuba dive into the new you?

People with disabilities, who are ready to reap the benefits of scuba diving, should check out the Adaptive Scuba programs at A-1 Scuba & Travel Aquatics Center in Littleton, Colorado. They offer unique and exciting scuba diving opportunities (including a FREE monthly Try Scuba Diving Experience) specifically for people with disabilities and wounded veterans.

Please call A-1 at 303-789-2450 for more information on their exciting adaptive scuba programs.