Where would you rather be right now – sitting at your work desk and waiting for your shift to end or lounging in the warm sun on a sandy beach? Nothing really compares to the sound of ocean waves, the smell of sea air, and the feeling of the sun as its light reaches the ground beneath you. If you ask me, that’s a much better day than one spent sitting in an office.
I’m not the only one who has that opinion either, even scientists agree with me. According to neuroscientists, you need to visit the beach.
It’s Good For Your Health
A day of sun, sea, and surf isn’t just relaxing, it’s actually good for you too. A recent study was published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology which aimed to prove that point. According to Dr. J. Aaron Hipp, author of the study, going to the beach is one of the best things that you can do for your own wellbeing. It may even be able to ease symptoms of anxiety.
Hipp states that outdoor activities have a wonderful healing ability. He says that “Studies have shown that natural environments like beaches and waterfront parks offer more restorative benefits to people than gyms, entertainment venues and the built urban environment.”
However, not all beach trips are the same. Hipp then goes further by explaining how different conditions can affect people in different ways. “Mild temperature days and low tides offer the most restorative environments when visiting the beach,” he says. “Beachgoers visiting on a day nearly 3°F warmer than average were 30 percent less likely to perceive the beach or coastal park as restorative, compared with those visiting on average or cooler than average days.”
How It Benefits You
There’re a lot of different factors that make going to the beach such a positive experience. The most obvious of which is the time spent in the sun. When we’re directly exposed to the sun, our bodies then begin to produce vitamin D, which is vital for our health. However, it’s important to make sure that you wear sunscreen. Otherwise, you’ll put yourself at risk for skin cancer.
Another beneficial aspect of the beach is the sea. Seawater contains a lot of important minerals, including magnesium, potassium, and iodine. These minerals are wonderful in that they can help to fight diseases as well as healing the body. Along with that, swimming in the ocean is an amazing workout for your body. It can even help to relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Finally, the sand at the beach also plays an important role in improving your health. Walking barefoot is much healthier for you, however, it’s something that you can’t do on the street. As well as that, walking on sand actually strengthens the muscles in your feet too. Some experts even believe that walking barefoot can improve your overall mood.
A day at the beach is one of the most fun and calming times that you can have. In addition to that, we now know that its benefits don’t just stop there. Visiting the beach is actually good for your health too. So, next time you have a free day, pack up your things and go to the beach. If that’s what scientists suggest, then why not?
Share this article with your friends so that you can start planning a beach trip together.