(Image via diveheart.org)
Not only is water essential for living, but it also provides benefits that are far beyond simply drinking the recommended 8 glasses a day.
Water also offers physical and mental well-being for those with disabilities.
In addition to water being weightless and providing a gravity-free environment, it is also known to provide soothing and healing properties.
This is why Diveheart, a nonprofit tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization, uses scuba therapy for children, adults and veterans who have a variety of disabilities. Disabilities include physical and developmental disabilities, vision and hearing impairments, amputation, traumatic brain injuries, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and more.
Diveheart’s mission is to “to build confidence, independence and self-esteem in the lives of children, adults and veterans with disabilities through scuba diving, scuba therapy and related activities.”
Their programs provide physical and psychological therapeutic value by giving their participants the chance to escape gravity for awhile.
Their vision is “to instill the “can do” spirit in participants, inspiring them to take on challenges that they may not have considered before. Using zero gravity and the adventure paradigm, we help participants believe that if they can scuba dive they can do anything.”
Those who have disabilities might struggle with gravity on land, but with scuba therapy, individuals don’t feel disabled in the water, giving them a chance to feel healthy and free.
How much do the programs cost? Well, that’s one of the best things about Diveheart… They don’t charge their participants a fee! Their volunteers, donors and families make it possible for them to provide programs at no charge.
Interested in participating in Diveheart’s programs? Diveheart programs are located at multiple suburban locations, including 5 locations in Chicago, 2 locations in Florida and 1 location in Atlanta.
What are you waiting for? Drive your wheelchair vans to IL, Florida or Atlanta to experience Diveheart Scuba Experience programs today!
Want more information on Diveheart? Visit their website here.