A day at the beach not only makes us happy, but can also make us healthy.
Everyone loves a day at the beach: the blue and the coolness of the water, the sea breeze and the relaxation of it all. Now, research is able to spell out its benefits:
- The sounds of the ocean waves crashing against the shore lull us into a kind of hypnotic stage that not only soothes us, but also lowers blood pressure and stress. The sounds of the waves are one of the most calming sounds in all of nature.
- The sea air feels different and it is. Sea air is full of negative ions which increase our ability to absorb oxygen. Negative ions are naturally found in places like the beach, waterfall, the forests and mountains, places that make us feel invigorated with the fresh air. They also help to create higher alertness, prevent allergies and combat depression.
- Many of our lasting memories from childhood and onwards are the discoveries and the happy times associated with the beach. I like this quote from American writer Anne Morrow Lindbergh: “The sea does not reward those who are too anxious, too greedy, or too impatient. One should lie empty, open, choiceless as a beach – waiting for a gift from the sea.”
- And don’t worry if you can’t away to the beach any time soon. It is said that just gazing at a photo of a tropical scene can release serotonin, a neurotransmitter that can boost a person’s mood.
Huntington Beach is about 30 minutes away from my place. It's a pretty, cosy beach and the surfers are always there.
This is the view from the chalet at Bintan island, Indonesia.
Sharifah. To appreciate the beach one have to live near one. I grew up beside the sea, so the beach have always been in my blood. When I was a child never a day that I was not at the beach. Read http://idrus.blogspot.com/2009/03/tranquility-teluk-cempedak.html .
Have a nice day.
Thanks, Pak Idrus, for sharing the memories and the post. How lucky to grow up next to the sea. Yes, the sea is a wondrous thing. Once you fall in love with it, its an enchantment that lasts forever.
Sharifa,
Having known only Tropical beaches in the early part of my life, a beach, to me, has always implied swimming or body-surfing in comfortably warm water, in a swimsuit, not a wet suit as those surfers in your photo of Huntington Beach. I lived very close to Newport Beach, so of course when I first went to the beach there on the first hot day of summer, I eagerly jumped into the sea, never to do so again. I can understand the need to wear a wet suit for scubadiving, but for frolicking in the surf because it’s too cold for comfort or survival?
I love the scenery along the California coastline but the emotions it stirs in me are very different from those associated with Tropical beaches.
Hi Louis. Thanks for sharing your memories and emotions about beaches. I do agree that tropical beaches with its swaying palms and warm water have a special appeal for many folks.