The ocean — a salty expanse of rolling swells, crashing waves and ebbing tides that draws us to want to be in it, or near it. In fact, spending time in or near the ocean has for centuries been used as the elixir for vitality. Ancient Greeks used to drink it, inhale it and bathe in it for good health and doctors were quick to prescribe a seaside holiday as a remedy for illness. That is because the ocean is full of vital elements that our bodies need, not to mention plenty of fresh air and the opportunity to relax.
As it so happens there are a few more good reasons to spend more time at the beach.
Breathe in the Sea Air
Numerous studies have proven that breathing in sea air does wonders for our respiratory systems. In fact, sufferers of Cystic Fibrosis who spend time in the ocean breathing in the sea air, have been found to have clearerlun gs and reduced flare-ups. The same can be said for sufferers of asthma, bronchitis and hay fever. Whether you suffer from these or not, breathing in sea air is just plain good for you.
Be Happy
It’s true! Going to the beach can make you happier and not only because beach activities help your body release endorphins and oxytocin! Sea air has been proven to diminish depression as negatively charged hydrogen ions help absorb oxygen and balance serotonin levels in the brain.
As a bonus, all that sunshine will restore your Vitamin D levels, crucial to hormone balance, mood and disease prevention. Many people are Vitamin D deficient despite its source being utterly free of charge — the Sun!
That Healthy Glow
We all recognize how healthy we look after a sun-kissed day at the beach. That’s because salt water reduces skin inflammation, cleans skins cells and destroys bacteria. In fact, sea water is also incredibly hydrating due to high levels of magnesium that lock in moisture! So, make sure you get in the water when you go the beach.
Unplug
Being around the ocean is a chance to put down your device and unplug. What better excuse to be consumed by the moment and admire the view, spend time with friends, walk or just stare out at the beautiful spectacle of mother nature.
Stress Less
The sound of the ocean is recognised by your brain as non-threatening hence why it is often played as relaxation music. The ocean can assist in decreasing depression and anxiety, and the levels of magnesium found in sea water are known to calm the nervous system, slow anxious thought and change brainwaves
A Good Night’s Sleep
The sound of crashing waves is nature’s lullaby. Our brains relax with the sound of waves and being exposed to natural sunlight at the beach can help regulate hormones and aid sleep.
Supercharge Your Circulation
Swimming in seawater can supercharge your circulation, get your heart pumping and move fresh blood around your organs. It does this by restoring essential minerals: vitamins, mineral salts, trace elements, amino acids and living organisms which secrete antibiotic, bacteriostatic and hormonal substances depleted by modern life and absorbed while swimming.
