Sunshine, sandy toes and the sound of ocean waves breaking. High above you are the bright blue sky and the ocean breeze against your face…who’s already feeling a bit more relaxed?
We are all well aware that the ocean and beaches are a symbol of relaxation but did you know it’s also scientifically proven to benefit your health? What better reason do you need to book your next vacation near the beach? Not buying into it quite yet? Let’s take a look at some of the proven benefits of vacationing near the ocean.
#1 The color blue associated with the ocean benefits our well-being
Statistics show that the color blue is the world’s favorite color. It’s no surprise seeing that we are surrounded by a world filled of blue shades. People surrounded by the ocean experience a mental relaxation that can soothe a tired mind as well as calm a problematic mind. It also makes a person more aware of their imagination. With time spent near the ocean you can allow your problems to float away while you spend your days gazing into the crystal blue ocean and sunshiny blue sky.
#2 The ocean breeze is beneficial to your lungs
Many people who work in an office rarely get a breath of fresh air. Most are stuck in an office for an average of 8 hours a day and don’t get the chance to go outside. Taking a break away from the office and heading near the ocean can benefit your lung health in many ways. The ocean breeze can actually clear out the lungs of those suffering from cystic fibrosis (Dr. Thomas W. Ferkol.) Also, other studies have suggested that ocean air can help thin mucus, improve lung function, reduce coughing and decrease sinus pressure. Who’s ready to get a breath of fresh air?
#3 We have a biological connection to water
From the beginning of our life cycle we are biologically connected to water. The human body is made up of 60% water, ¾ water makes up the brain and human bones contain 31%. Human brains respond to the sight of water by triggering a response of calmness and relaxation through the human body. This also enables us to feel rejuvenated and refreshed allowing us to forget any worries or stress on the mind. This biological connection can also help restore your focus. So when you’ve had a tough work week or life simply has you down, plan a vacation to the ocean to refresh and refocus your mind.
#4 Amazing source of vitamin D and improved immune health
One of the most beneficial and essential vitamins in our diets is vitamin D. Although important, we often times don’t consume near enough of this vitamin through the food that we eat. Fortunately for us, only 10 minutes of sunshine will do the trick. What better way to get that 10 minutes of sunshine than at the beach? The ocean is also great for your immune health. Salt water contains unique antibacterial properties that help sooth external and internal infections. These infections can include cuts and open wounds and also help boost the function of the thyroid gland and energy levels. Good levels of iodine in your body also ensures metabolism rates are optimal.
#5 The ocean allows you to connect with your inner self
Whether religious or not spending time with your self is important. We all need time to reflect and focus on personal goals. Whether we have goals for work or our personal lives, it can be hard to focus on them in our stressful day to day lives. Being near the ocean allows us to be one with nature. The calmness associated with nature is proven to help us relax and feel at peace. Making it easier to get in touch with our inner self and our consciousness. There is no better spot that near the ocean to get connected with yourself and enjoy all that nature has to offer.
Are you convinced that being near the ocean is essential for your health? If not, you may as well have to try it out for yourself. The next time you have a stressful week at work or simply need a break, take a vacation. Visit the Gulf Coast and see for yourself. You may just find yourself coming back over and over, and there’s absolute nothing wrong with that!
Check out our available homes on the gulf coast here. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to us. We would be glad to plan your beneficial vacation to the gulf coast.