Did you know that when you spend time on the beach and in the sea you are improving your physical and mental well-being? Health benefits of the ocean are numerous, and not only is breathing the salt air advantageous, but the elements in the sea elevate your body and mind.
In addition to the ocean’s composition, unsurprisingly, the sea’s temperature affects your body in different ways. Whether the water is cold and electrifies your body or it’s warm and serene, it’s all advantageous to your health,
Therefore, the next time that you are on vacation oceanside, remember that you are enhancing your health, and you may enjoy your trip even more.
Health Benefits of Ocean Air
According to studies by the Lung Institute, breathing salt air can improve lung function lessening the need for antibiotics. Furthermore, ocean air thins mucus, eases sinus pressure, reduces coughing, and the risk of asthma attacks. Additionally, the air’s “negatively charged hydrogen ions” promote oxygen absorption that improves our mood, energy levels, creativity, and sleep.
Health Benefits of the Ocean Saltwater
Benefits of Swimming in Sea Water
Floating in the ocean increases blood flow throughout our body and drives oxygen to the brain making us feel more attentive and energized. Additionally, not only does the sea’s magnesium moisturize our skin, but the antibacterial properties improve ailments such as eczema and psoriasis. Equally important, swimming in the ocean helps us to sleep deeper, in effect boosting your immunity.
Swimming in cold water releases hormones that elevate our spirit and energy levels and reduces inflammation. In addition to burning calories, these cold water dips improve our overall physical condition.
For example, warm sea water opens our pores enabling us to detoxify and absorb the ocean’s elements. Moreover, in places where we see the sea in shades of blue, it affects people differently. In other words, it calms some of us but energizes others.
Health Benefits of the Ocean: Increased Physical Activity
Since we have more time, we are more active at the beach. In addition to swimming, surfing, and other water sports, we are more likely to play tennis, golf, run, walk, explore and shop. Consequently, we are exercising more and strengthening our bodies thereby reducing health risks like obesity, some cancers, heart disease, diabetes, and depression.
Sunlight Benefits
Our bodies produce vitamin D from the sun’s UVB rays. Its anti-inflammatory properties may prevent cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease, in addition to improving our disposition. By spending ten to thirty minutes in the sun per day, we can improve our well-being. Daily exposure enables the body to store up to 60 days of the vitamin that we lack during northern winters. Darker or sunscreen-coated skin may need more extended exposure to realize the rewards.
As an aside, a dentist, who has studied vitamin D in depth, suggests that we take at least 5,000 IU vitamin D supplements to boost our immunity, and the health of our bones, teeth, and muscles.
Seaside Dining
It’s easier to find fresh seafood at a seaside vacation spot. If your goal is to return home weighing less and feeling fit, you should take advantage of the restaurants nearby.
True Stroy
Years ago, an acquaintance said that he had moved seaside because it was his wife’s “power zone.” They knew that inhaling the oxygen-rich-salt air and wading in the waves was a distraction from worries, and it made them feel healthy and happy.
Home
With that said, if you can’t make it to the ocean, you can enjoy some of the perks of the sea at home.
Rub Epsom salts on your skin to Polish or exfoliate, then add about two cups to a hot bath and soak for 20 minutes to detoxify and enjoy the advantages of magnesium.
In conclusion, the next time you are on a seaside vacation, breathe deeply and take a swim. Remember that it’s improving your mood and health.
I would love to know your thoughts. What do you like best about the beach and ocean?
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I wouldn’t care if ocean water was bad …. I LOVE the OCEAN!! Love your post 🙂
Your comment made me laugh. Thanks for reading my post, and now you know that when you take a dip it’s fun and healthy!
I swam in the ocean for the first time in 2008 and although it was freezing cold, I have always loved it. One unexpected benefit last year was that my teenage daughter would swim out with me and we had some of the best conversations, which we wouldn’t have on dry land. FOr some reason the ocean seemed to make her more open. And she couldn’t hide in her teenage cave, like she usually does at home 😀
Karen, thank you for your comment. On the East Coast of the United States the water is freezing in spring and early summer, and as kids we used to dare each other to jump in. But, it’s more tolerable in July and August, though it still can feel shocking but refreshing. Most importantly, you will never forget how you bonded with your teenage daughter in the ocean. That makes it special.
Fascinating article. I’ve always known that I was happier and felt better by the ocean, but I never really gave a lot of thought to the real science behind why those things were. Your article certainly makes a lot of sense. Thanks for the insights!
Pat, like you I was happy to learn about the health benefits of the ocean and inhaling salt air. Thanks for your comment.