Find Joy by Easing Anxiety Outdoors
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s no surprise that stress and anxiety are on the rise. With constant news alerts, financial worries, and the pressure to keep up, many people are feeling stretched thin. That’s why April—Stress Awareness Month—is an important reminder to pause, reflect, and prioritize our mental well-being.
How Stressed Are We in 2025?
Recent studies show that 7 in 10 Americans report feeling stressed or anxious on a daily basis. According to the American Institute of Stress, nearly 55% of adults say they experience high levels of daily stress, with younger generations—especially Millennials and Gen Z—feeling the brunt of burnout. Social media, job insecurity, and global uncertainty continue to weigh heavily on our mental health.
The Power of Presence and Connection
So how do we combat this? One of the most powerful antidotes to anxiety is joy—and joy thrives in connection. Taking time to unplug and be present with the people we care about can make a huge difference in our stress levels. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors, near water, or simply in the sunshine can naturally lower cortisol (our stress hormone), ease muscle tension, and improve mood.
Why Being on the Water Works
There’s something undeniably calming about being on a boat. The gentle movement, the open air, and the scenic views all help create an environment where people can relax, laugh, and reset. Whether it’s a slow cruise down the Chicago River, catching golden hour with friends, or simply floating with your favorite playlist, boating offers a peaceful escape from the noise of everyday life.
Simple Ways to De-Stress This Month
If you’re looking for ways to manage stress this April, try:
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Stepping outside for a walk (even 10 minutes helps!)
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Journaling or meditating at the start of your day
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Unplugging from social media for a few hours
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Spending quality time with friends or family
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Planning a boat day to get on the water and off the grid
Find Joy This Season
At Chicago Boat Company, we believe that joy is found in the little things—and sometimes those little things include fresh air, your favorite people, and a gentle ride on the river. As we embrace our Year of Joy campaign, we’re encouraging our community to choose moments that soothe the soul and spark connection.
Whether it’s a birthday, a long-overdue catch-up with a friend, or simply a Saturday that needs a little sunshine, we’re here to help you make memories that feel good.
Because stress may be part of life—but so is joy. And we’re choosing joy, one cruise at a time.
