Health benefits of being by the sea

Many of us have fond memories of visiting the British seaside, the fresh fish and chips, buckets and spades, and penny arcades to name just a couple of alluring attractions. However, happiness and nostalgia aren’t the only benefit to the seaside; being by the sea also has many health and well-being benefits. 

The healing power of the beach has been discussed for centuries, with Hippocrates prescribing the internal and external use of sea water to restore good health. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the sea air was even thought to cure illnesses such as tuberculosis! Although this may no longer be the belief there is certainly reason behind our predecessor’s thoughts. 

Have you ever wondered why you feel so refreshed after spending time by the sea? That’s because sea air is charged with healthy negative ions, which accelerates your ability to absorb oxygen and balances serotonin levels, a chemical that regulates moods and contributes to well-being and happiness. This explains why when you have a coastal break, you feel more energised, relaxed and alert. 

Escaping from big cities and pollution also has a positive impact on our health. There is no doubt that fresh air is beneficial as it can reduce our stress levels, blood pressure and heart rate. This is even more apparent by the sea as the air contains higher levels of oxygen. As we have entered a new year and decade, what better time to consider booking a wellbeing retreat by the sea, relaxing in a gorgeous coastal cottage and looking after your mental wellbeing.

Living close to the sea also promotes good physical health and offers more opportunities for exercise than other locations. With a wide range of activities to partake in that aren’t possible inland, such as wild sea swimming, surfing and more! Seawater is rich in magnesium which helps to relax your muscles, relieve stress and improve your sleep.

Being near the sea also has great benefits for our mental well-being, one reason being that it helps us achieve a meditative state, listening to the rhythmic crashing waves and soothing wildlife, there is no better place to contemplate and relax. Meditation has a wide range of benefits, it helps reduce stress, and increase relaxation and happiness.

Not only does the sound of the sea improve well-being, so does soaking in the sun. Whether is the warm summer sun or fresh winter sun, it all releases endorphins also known as the happy hormones. 

Devon is a great choice if you’re on the hunt for some winter sun and with its own microclimate and its nickname of The English Riviera, it’s easy to see why. Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays have a beautiful selection of picturesque properties in the area which are perfect for recharging after a relaxing day at the beach.

If the beautiful coastal views alone are not already a great reason to book a getaway to the coast, then the health benefits of the sea air will surely encourage you.