The ocean is the life force of Mother Earth – it’s what differentiates us from any other planet. You may not know this but being close to the water, and specifically the ocean, is incredibly good for us in tons of ways – mentally and physically. The ocean covers over 70% of the earth’s surface and provides endless food, medicine, and entertainment for all of us. She shares all she has to offer because she’s abundant, confident, and fearless. Here are just a few of the ways that we can benefit from the ocean and in return, we must learn to care for her as generously as she cares for us. – Holly

1. Blue is calming. Staring out at the ocean relaxes you and puts you in touch with nature.

2. Waves reduce stress. I listen to my sound machine from Homedics every night at bedtime and I always have it dialed into ocean waves. As waves approach the shore, crash, and then recede again, the parasympathetic nervous system is activated, which slows down the brain and helps promote relaxation.

3. You can’t help but exercise. While I love to lay on the beach and read a great book, that can only last for so long. The perfect day at the beach for me is a book, music, swimming and taking a long walk. When you take your walk a bit further from the shoreline, the sand is softer and makes for an incredible leg workout. I love the burn I feel in my calves knowing that not only am I having fun, but I’m doing good for my body.

4. A little sun does the body good. When the sun is shining it stimulates the production of Vitamin D which is very important because it helps our bodies to produce calcium. Unfortunately, the average American is deficient in vitamin D which can lead to a host of health issues. However, there is such thing as too much sun, so be careful out there. Don’t forget your Sun Bum sunscreen.

5. You’ve heard that ocean air is good for you right? Salt air is thick with high salt content and research has shown that it helps improve lung function among many other health benefits.

6. The ocean heals all wounds. Due to the plentiful salt and minerals in ocean water, it quickly helps to heal small cuts and scrapes. If you’re in cold ocean water – think New England ocean water, it can help with inflammation just like an ice bath.

 

7. A free spa day! Every time I’m visiting the ocean, I sit where the waves are just out of reach and I grab the wet ocean sand and rub it all over my arms and legs, then I let it sit for about 10 minutes and jump into the ocean to rinse off. Exfoliating is good for you and this is a great way to submerge yourself in nature and exfoliate with salty minerals that will leave you feeling soft and refreshed.

8. Negative ions are not negative. Negative ions are found in extremely high concentrations near the ocean. These molecules are microscopic and can not only pass through our skin cells but also through our lungs via the air we breathe. Studies have shown that negative ions possess not only an anti-microbial effect but also a mood-stabilizing one. Research indicates that negative ions can also influence serotonin levels in your brain making you feel happier. What’s cooler than that?

9. It’s a natural tech detox. Who wants to be locked into their phone or on their laptop while at the beach? Not me! Any tech devices can easily be ruined by sand, sun, or water, but also there’s so much else to do at the beach that you won’t miss your emails even just a little.

10. The perfect place for a nap. Not only will the fresh, salty air and negative ions perk you up, but the beach is also a spectacular place for a catnap. Let the sound of the waves lull you to sleep for an invigorating power nap, then take a plunge into the ocean. You’ll feel all of your worries and stress wash away.