That salty scent in the air, the feel of the sun hitting your skin, the sound of the waves hitting the shore, those are just some mood-lifting things we experience on a trip to the beach. When you make a choice to spend time at the beach, did you know you are making a choice to improve your mental and physical health? Whether you are kayaking, surfing, or just enjoying time in nature, your trip to the beach has a positive impact on your wellbeing. There is good reason doctors have been prescribing “doses” of time ocean-side.
The book, The Blue Mind: The Surprising Science That Shows How Being Near, In, On, or Under Water Can Make You Happier, Healthier, More Connected, and Better at What You Do by Wallace Nichols discusses some of the benefits of spending time in or near salt water. Relieving stress, anxiety, depression, strengthening your immune system, and improving breathing are just some of the benefits of life near the sea. A five to 20 percent increase in red blood cells after being in the ocean can boost your immune system. Normalizing blood pressure can help treat nervousness and boost your mood. Spending time swimming in salt water increases circulation, sending oxygen-rich blood through your body and back to your heart.
Magnesium, calcium, sodium, and iodide are all found in salt water. These elements impact your health as they are absorbed into the skin. During your time spent in the ocean magnesium can help decrease anxiety and increase calmness. Inhaling salt from ocean water can help with respiratory diseases. Ulcers, acne, lupus all show improvement when introduced to salt water.
Physical health isn’t the only thing improving when you spend time on the coast. Studies show that people who live near the ocean report less psychological distress. Being in nature has shown to be therapeutic and decrease stress. In a study from the New Zealand Health Survey it was discovered that regardless of socioeconomic status, local crime rates, and background, people who spend time near the ocean have better physical and emotional wellbeing. This information further proves that we all benefit from time spent at the beach!
EPIC Adventures recognizes and embraces the healing power of the ocean and, as a result, many of our therapeutic and corporate team building activities are centered around the ocean. If you’re interested in learning more, call us at 1-855-5BE EPIC or visit our website: 69.175.75.178/~epicadventuresth.