It is not a coincidence that people want to go to the beach after a long day of work or stress. Beaches are calming and give you the feeling of being reconnected with nature. So what does the vitamin sea offer to our mental health?
Stress Reliever
Most BetterHelp experts believe that going to the beach can relieve you from stress because the sound of waves, the light, and the scent of the ocean are calming. The sound of the waves is often used to induce sleep. Additionally, going to the beach also means being exposed to natural light. This natural light helps alleviate stress and calm the mind. As Jessica Harris, LCPC, LPC explains, “Everyone handles positive and negative stress differently. And yes, for some, positive stress can lead to a negative response to stress, depending on the situation.”
That is why most people choose to spend their vacation at the beach. Serotonin, a hormone responsible for happiness, is released whenever people spend their time at the beach. There is also a scientific report that people who live near the beach area are in a healthier mental state than those who do not.
Relaxation
An important thing that a trip to the beach brings is fresh and clean air. People can relax when they are on the beach because it is easier to breathe there. The wind on the beach contains negative ions which aid in trouble-free breathing. People who have trouble breathing have a different experience whenever they visit a beach.
Being around people who are also enjoying the calm brought by the beach is also a factor why visiting a beach can be relaxing. When you are out in the open, seeing kids build sandcastles and people enjoying the waves can help you realize that life can be enjoyable.
Even a simple walk by the shore is more relaxing than a walk in the city. The feeling of sand on your feet and the clean air contribute to the relaxing ambiance of a beach. This relaxing feeling helps clear your mind from negative thoughts.
Meditation
Meditations work best when performed on the beach. The sound of the crashing waves, the fresh air, and the feeling of sand on your body can put you in a meditative state. Going to the beach can help you find happiness in solitude. It will also block any negative thoughts that may have been bothering you. “Look at negative thoughts like reruns of a TV show you’ve seen a million times. Let them play in the background while you shift your focus to something else.” explains Jo Eckler, PsyD.
Meditation can also help you reexamine your perspectives in life as it boosts your self-awareness. Are you healthily living your life? This reexamination of your life can help you achieve a healthier mental state. This connection with nature and yourself can bring catharsis to your life.
Healthier Mental State
Going to the beach offers a lot of positive contributions to a person’s mental health. It can be a stress reliever, a relaxation venture, or a place to meditate. Thus, it is not surprising that more people are deciding to build houses in coastal areas. That way, they can always feel relaxed and connected to nature. “Staring at the ocean actually changes our brain waves’ frequency and puts us into a mild meditative state.” Richard Shuster, PsyD said.
Are you ready to go on an adventure that is good for your mental health? Good luck with your next dose of vitamin sea! We hope you get the best out of your much-needed break. You deserve that overall wellness.