Sail off to the South Lakes for boat-ox

Those seeking the Holy Grail of eternal youth are heading to the South Lakes in droves, as boat-ox, on Windermere, becomes the answer to the age-conscious, 50-somethings’ prayers.

Celebrities including Madonna and Moss are reported to be plumping up their skin with the oxygen in short supply in polluted, frantic environments, recognising that, as we age, oxygen levels in our skin decrease.

Whilst they are using their millions to enjoy oxygen supplementation through beauty therapy, those on lower budgets are using their little grey cells and heading for England’s largest lake, where a short cruise, midst fresh, clean air, can deliver the oxygen supplies required to rejuvenate ageing and dehydrated skin.

Modern life is leaving many of us worn out, needing time to unwind, recover and recharge. Oxygen therapy is already used to reduce wrinkles, stimulate cell regeneration and combat acne. Oxygen allows the skin to breathe again and look refreshed, radiant and alive.

Thanks to the growing emphasis on oxygen, health and beauty fanatics are putting Windermere firmly on their radar and are planning as much time as possible in its clean, pure environment. Whilst cities in India and Pakistan are having to open oxygen bars to allow people to enjoy the benefits of fresh air, Windermere Lake Cruises is simply selling tickets.

Windermere Lake Cruises spokesperson, Gail Micklethwaite, says: "In 2007, we noticed an upsurge in visitors heading to our beautiful landscape not for the view, but for the oxygen-fuelled air. We have looked into this and can now assist those enjoying cruises for the purposes of rejuvenation, by suggesting some ways for them to maximise the benefits of our South Lakes air."

One technique is to practise slow, rhythmic breathing through alternate nostrils. Another is for passengers to lay on deck, on their back, with knees bent, taking in as much fresh air for the body’s use as possible.

Although the popularity of this fresh air, oxygen-fuelled experience may be new, the benefits of the Southern Lake District’s air can be traced back in time.

Peter Elkington, of Rydal Mount, the poet Wordworth’s home for 37 years, says: "All records suggest that Wordsworth maintained a youthful appearance well in to his later years. His poetry talks of youthfulness and we believe that his looks belied his age, as he grew older.

"Wordsworth’s creativity undoubtedly stemmed from his life in Cumbria. He walked extensively, enjoying the fresh, Cumbrian air and clear mountain waters. Perhaps he was also ahead of his time in recognising the contribution fresh air and oxygen can play in maintaining skin quality and elasticity."

David Woods, head of the acclaimed David Maria beauty salon, in Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire, one of the North West’s pioneers of skin therapy treatments, including Botox, adds: "The evidence would suggest that the South Lakes has all the ingredients to assist the maintenance of good skin quality. We are experts in Botox and have long used oxygen treatments, but we would still recommend that our clients head off for a top-up of oxygen in the fresh air of the Lake District."

Windermere Lake Cruises will be assisting those passengers who are sailing for beauty, rather than natural beauty reasons, throughout the 2008 season. As Gail Micklethwaite comments: "In Hollywood, London and the Far East, expensive oxygen bars have to be established to supply the population with the oxygen the air is lacking.

"Here, we have naturally pure and clean, fresh air, full of the oxygen that can give the skin a treat. Why spend money on oxygen bars when we are rich in a natural supply anyone can enjoy?"

Health and beauty conscious consumers can enjoy a number of different cruise options on Windermere, with boats sailing between various parts of the lake. More information is available at Windermere-lakecruises.co.uk.