7 Amazing Health Benefits of Beachgoing
© Simona Sergi
Few things in life compare to a sunny day at the beach, whether it is with family, friends or a solo getaway, the vast expanse of the healing ocean reminds us of our infinite potential as human beings, the pure potentiality of life itself and how small we and our problems are in relation to the grand world around us.
The health benefits of beachgoing across the seven seas are manifold. It is well known that over 70% of our planet is covered in water and everything that makes life possible is found in our oceans. Adult bodies consist of 60% water, our brain 70% and our blood is 90% water – we are therefore, literally surrounded by water; outside and inside.
On any given day, if you take a walk out on the beach, pause and notice the following: there is a heavenly unseen realm above us in the sky, a physical earthly realm in front of us, and an entire realm beneath us in the sea. These three realms play an immense role when it comes to our health and here are the top seven health benefits of beachgoing that will help you understand why spending time there is so immensely beneficial.
Vitamin D
Spending time outdoors, without the use of toxic sunscreen, gives our bodies natural exposure to the sun from above. This allows our bodies to produce the precious Vitamin D. This essential fat-soluble vitamin helps with promoting healthy bones and teeth, boosts immunity, improves overall mood, and enhances sleep function by balancing our circadian rhythm, a.k.a our sleep / wake cycle.
Negative Ions
The moment you arrive at the beach, something within you changes. That instant feeling comes from what is known as negative ions. These invisible molecules are found in the atmospheric air and are charged with electricity. They naturally reduce stress, improve the immune system and aid detoxification. So take a deep breath and soak up the benefits of these unseen healers.
Transdermal Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral responsible for over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. Unfortunately, the vast majority of the world’s population is magnesium deficient due to stress, soil degradation and overconsumption of processed foods.
Luckily for all the beachgoers, the salt water is full of essential trace minerals, including magnesium, which is absorbed through the skin. Known as the calm mineral, it helps to relax the nervous system, benefits bodily ailments and brings about much needed peace.
Thalassotherapy
Thalassotherapy is known as seawater medicine, “thalassa” meaning sea in Greek. The art of bathing in the ocean and surrounding the body with mineral rich water dates back to ancient times. It has immune boosting properties, increases circulation through cellular oxygenation, decreases muscle fatigue and improves skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis and eczema.
Grounding / Earthing
Known as “electric nutrition” and “vitamin G”, this marvelous healing gift from nature is brought to us the moment we place our bare feet on the sand. For many, the daily routine of putting on socks and shoes, going to work, visiting the gym and coming home to unwind from the day’s activities leaves us disconnected to the earth below us. Over time, this disconnect causes systemic inflammation and the body begins to signal something is off balance.
When we disconnect from technology and ground into the earth, we get to experience improved sleep, reduced stress, accelerated healing, protection against electromagnetic frequencies, better mood, reduced joint pain, increased oxygen levels and less inflammation.
Chromotherapy
In chromotherapy, often referred to as color therapy the visible spectrum is used to heal the physical, mental and spiritual energy imbalances. Next time you are in a natural environment like the beach on a sunny day, notice the colors and the impact they have on your emotions and overall mood. The bright yellow sun, the vibrant blue sky, the puffy white clouds, the turquoise blue water and the neutral sand all play a mood boosting role and bring forth a new sense of balance. If the day happened to be dark and gloomy, then emotionally you would feel different, albeit the same beach. Interestingly enough, the same can be said for the daily clothing choices we make.
Sound Therapy
Have you ever wondered why people fall asleep so easily to the sound of waves? The answer lies in what is known as the Schumann Resonance and 7.83 Hz, the earth’s vibrating “heartbeat” frequency. When we walk barefoot on the beach or swim in the ocean, we share the same electrical potential as the earth and partake in harmonizing with the natural magnetic rhythms.
Our entire biological system, the brain and the earth itself work on the same frequencies.
-Nikola Tesla
So there is more to the beach than meets the eye. The health benefits of beachgoing go much deeper than ‘having a good time’, but instead a true timeless healing experience for those who are open and ready to receive natures’ gifts. It is my hope this article increases your awareness and inspires you to plan your next trip to nature’s original, life changing spa.