Hey mermaid or merman, it's time that you get your tail to the beach! Did you know that the ocean can have immensely profound benefits on your mental health? This is due to the beach being considered a blue space. A blue space is a water source such as an ocean, lake, pond, or pool. Immersing yourself or a loved one to a blue space can aid in improving overall health. In addition, the beach is one of the best places to go when you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
It is important to keep your stress levels low, as stress is correlated to heart disease. Did you know that the leading cause of death in America is actually heart disease? According to the CDC, approximately 696,962 deaths each year alone come from heart related issues. If you are stressed often and don’t have a healthy way to manage it, you are at risk for potentially developing heart disease down the line. An even better reason to get your tail to the coast! Let your brain decompress and reap the wondrous benefits of the beach.
You deserve to feel rejuvenated, and not just on the weekend. My personal favorite time to get a little vitamin sea is actually sunrise during the weekdays. Studies show that shocking your system first thing in the morning helps to promote productivity throughout your day; Whether it be from a cold shower, submerging your face in ice, or a dip in the ocean. There is something euphoric to be said about floating in the water as the sun begins to peek up over the horizon. Letting the sea absorb your problems from yesterday and fill you with motivation for today leaves you at ease. I can assure you that no problem of yours is bigger than the ocean. Isn’t that comforting? Nature is constantly giving us positive affirmation, everywhere we look. As humans we must learn how to pay closer attention to these messages. It is vital to our mental health.
The water attaches to every inch of your body that is submerged, almost like a sea hug. A gift from planet earth telling you all will be ok, and to trust the process. The ocean stops for no one, but knows that its flow is endless and abundant. There is an entire world inside of the ocean, and we have yet to discover all of it. Just like the world that lives inside each of our minds; still undiscovered.
Being in nature, where you feel safe can actually lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels. The ocean will heighten your mood by increasing your self esteem and promoting relaxation. The beach can have lasting benefits on those who suffer from anxiety, depression, elevated stress, amongst other mental health conditions. Just a few minutes is really all you need. You would be surprised how just ten measly minutes spent by the sea can significantly improve your day, mood, or life.
While going to the beach will not solve all of your problems, it can certainly help with putting them in perspective. I highly recommend turning your phone off, or leaving it in the car and getting to the ocean when you can. It’s also good to soak up the sun, and get plenty of vitamin D. Just don’t forget your sunscreen. I live in Wilmington N.C. where we have two gorgeous beaches close by. Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach. If you are considering a getaway, one of these stunning beaches would be incredible for your trip. These are the two that I personally frequent each week. My mental health has significantly improved after living coastal for six years now. Could your mental health use a little fine tuning? If so, get your tail to the beach mermaid!
Article title
How the Beach Can Help Reduce Stress and Ease Anxiety and Depression
URL
https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/mental-health-benefits-of-the-beach
Website title
WebMD
Date accessed
June 1, 2022
Article title
FastStats - Leading Causes of Death
URL
https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/leading-causes-of-death.htm
Website title
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Date accessed
June 1, 2022
Date published
January 13, 2022
Article title
Stress and Heart Disease: What's the Link?
URL
https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/stress-heart-disease-risk
Website title
WebMD
Date accessed
June 1, 2022