Seven surprising health benefits of visiting the beach
I spent part of the summer in Ocean City, MD with my mom and daughters, which was amazing and restorative for me.
During my childhood, we went to Ocean City every summer until I was 15 and I loved it.
Thirty-something years later since my last visit, and I still loved it.
And, while I was having an amazing time in the sun, I thought, why have I not taken advantage of the beaches near Brooklyn, so close to home?
Yesterday, my daughters and I jumped in the car – we didn’t bring bathing suits, we had no plans to swim, we didn’t have much time – and just enjoyed being at the beach and its health benefits.
If you live near a beach, go! Get healthy!
7 surprising health benefits of visiting the beach:
1. Breathe in happiness. 🌊
When you inhale the salty misty air you inhale negative ions. Don't be concerned about the word "negative ions." Negative ions are oxygen ions with an extra electron from the water which has a positive effect on your physiology. It has an anti-depressant effect.
2. Meditation helps us to heal. 🧘♀️
The sound of crashing waves can mimic rhythmic breathing and supports the mind in reaching a meditative state. It’s like a nervous system reset.
3. Get strong. 👣
Have you ever noticed how it’s a bit tricky walking in the sand? Walking barefoot on the sand helps strengthen the muscles of your feet and lower legs. A short walk in the sand can improve your well-being.
4. Get grounded. 🌎
Walking barefoot helps you to connect energetically with the earth. The electromagnetic impulses of the earth and your body acts like a kind of rebalancing tonic. Think of putting your feet in the sand as battery recharge for your body.
5. Enjoy the beauty of nature. 🐬
The color of the ocean and sand has a calming effect on your senses. The last time I was at the beach, one of my daughters saw dolphins! It was definitely an uplifting experience. The beauty of nature can feel so restorative. You don’t even have to swim or walk!
6. Water Cure. 💧
Swimming in saltwater is a form of Hydrotherapy. It is better than soaking in Epsom salts in your bathtub! You will soak up minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and zinc. It can help relieve pain. It will soothe and improve eczema or psoriasis. My favorite benefit is it softens ear wax and blackheads and clears your skin!
7. Wander where the wi-fi is weak. 🏝
Leave the laptop! The beach is a getaway, a mini-vacation, a self-heal day, and a do-for-you event. The constant connection to our devices is stressful. Take a break!
