Why The Beach Gives Your Mental Health a Boost!
Have you ever noticed how spending time at the beach instantly lifts your spirits? This is because it offers much more than just a picturesque setting; it really is a natural tonic for your mental health! Maybe you live close to a beach or just enjoy visiting, either way, here are some great reasons why it’s worth getting to the coast often.
Outdoors in Nature
The beach is the perfect place to reconnect with nature, where the sounds, smells and textures all create a calming sensory experience. Being outdoors in nature helps reduce stress, anxiety and even symptoms of depression. The beach offers a serene and tranquil environment that allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and find peace within yourself- just go on a quiet day or later in the evening so you dont run into lots of tourists.
Gentle Exercise
At the beach, exercise becomes a joy rather than a chore. Walking or running on the sand challenges your muscles in a gentle yet effective way as the resistance of the sand engages more muscles. When you have the scenery and good vibes all around you, chances are you’ll walk or run further without even thinking about it! Another option is renting an e-bike from a company like rideitfl.com. That way you can exercise gently and the electronic element of the bike takes care of any very strenuous parts of the ride. So you know you’re getting a gentle workout and won’t be stuck peddling up steep hills which may be what puts you off getting out on your bike! Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, the feel-good hormones that elevate your mood and create a sense of happiness.
Sunlight and Vitamin D
Soaking up the sun at the beach really boosts your mood. Sunlight triggers the production of vitamin D in your body, which plays a vital role in improving your mental health. Vitamin D helps regulate neurotransmitters that affect your mood and overall emotional well-being. Just remember to always wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s rays while enjoying the sunshine. Sunscreen these days is easier to apply than ever, there are lots of ‘invisible’ formulations that can be sprayed on as a light mist and absorbed almost instantly. So no more rubbing in thick, greasy creams.
Stress Reduction
Life can be overwhelming for all of us at times, and stress can take a huge toll on mental health. Luckily, the beach provides a natural remedy for stress. The rhythm of the waves, the vastness of the ocean and the beauty all around tend to have a calming effect on your mind. These elements can help you to reach a meditative state where you reduce your cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and promote relaxation. When you’re at the beach you can become more present in the moment, letting go of worries about the past or future. If you embrace the simple act of being present at the beach, you’ll experience a deep sense of tranquillity.
Social Time
The beach can be a great place for any kind of social activity. You can go on picnics and have barbeques where you sit and eat together. You can play volleyball or go on walks together to get some exercise with your nearest and dearest. Connecting with friends and loved ones in the beauty of nature can help to create a sense of belonging and happiness. Social interactions trigger the release of oxytocin, the “bonding hormone,” which promotes feelings of love and trust. So plan a beach day with your favorite people and enjoy the positive effects it has on your mental health.
