THE OCEAN’S CURATIVE POWERS
For many centuries the ocean has brought enjoyment and peace to those who come searching, and recent science has now supported that spending time near the ocean is good for your health- physically, mentally, and emotionally. There are a variety of reasons for the benefits the ocean gives. In the name of health and happiness, spend more time near the ocean!
-Spending time near the ocean will make you calmer- Scientists have discovered that humans have something they call a “blue mind.” This means that our brains are hardwired to react positively to water. Watching the ocean, listening to the ocean, or being in the ocean, gives the brain a rest from overstimulation. Our brains do not shut down, they simply adjust how they are working, giving them a much needed break… Often followed by the release of the happiness chemicals–dopamine and serotonin.
Vitamin D- There is some terrible statistic-approximately 75% of Americans do not absorb the recommended amount of Vitamin D (this statistic is commonly attributed to lifestyle i.e. office jobs.) But, spending some time outside near a giant body of water that reflects the sun’s rays will give you strong doses of the coveted Vitamin D. Vitamin D is key in combating depression, strengthening bones, the health of the immune system, and believe it or not, the digestive system. So soak up some Vitamin D, but don’t forget to monitor your skin and apply sunscreen!
–Salt is naturally antibacterial– Any acne, scrapes, cuts, sores, or even internal inflammation is likely to heal much more quickly after spending time in the ocean. And you don’t even have to work for this, you only have to spend a little bit of time in the ocean- Even jumping in and running out is healthy, and the equivalent of rinsing a cut with salt water. And, it probably won’t hurt as much either.
–The ocean increases human connectedness– Researchers have found that facing the water causes the brain to release the “awe” chemicals. These chemicals are the ones that are released when looking at something amazing. At the same time this happens, the human brain tends to feel connected to the universe, and to those around it. Looking at the ocean with a loved one does in fact affect your experience with them. Try it!
–Working out near the water makes the workout better– This is for two reasons. 1) As mentioned above, the ocean provides provides a safeguard from overstimulation, so it is able mentally, to focus on what matters 2) Physically energy is maintained for longer. Working out while surrounded by people is actually exhausting, even if you don’t realize it. Your body working to absorb all content around it while simultaneously working to break down and build muscle is much more tiring than you realize. If you give your body a breaking from navigating the crowds and machines around you, it will maintain energy longer for what you are actually there to do– move.
A few ideas for ocean and beach activities:
-Art
-Meditating
-Picnic with food
-Distance swimming
-Working out
-Diving under waves
-Poetry writing
-Beach yoga
-Nature walk
-Surf/body board
-Whale watching
-Animal watching (sand crabs, sea birds, sea lions)
-Journaling
-Drinks on the beach (don’t bring glasses!)
-Sunset/sunrise watching
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