More than 400 years ago, English physicians recommended cold water for everything from heat stroke to melancholy.
In the 1800's sea resorts were popular for treating tuberculosis.
In 1944 The Journal of the American Medical Association promoted the sun, air and sea as a cure for everything from tuberculosis to a cold. TheAtlantic
I don't think doctors today believe that a visit to the the beach will cure medical conditions but recent studies prove that a beach-type environment can improve our brains and mental health. Inc Visiting the beach can also provide feelings of calm and peace. NBCNews
In addition to stress relief a visit to the beach can also increase levels of serotonin, boost your immune system, soften the soles of your feet, provide Vitamin D, and reduce sinus inflammation.
1. Exposure to Negative Ions - The action of the pounding surf creates negative air ions. Negative ions are molecules floating in the air or atmosphere that have been charged with electricity. They are odorless, tasteless, and invisible molecules that we inhale. Once they reach our bloodstream, negative ions are believed to produce biochemical reactions that increase levels of the mood chemical serotonin which helps to reduce depression, relieve stress, and boost our daytime energy. WebMD
2. Swimming in Cold Water - Being in cold water boosts your immune system. Cold water helps to increase the white blood cell count because the body is forced to react to changing conditions. Over time, your body becomes better at activating its defenses. IPRSHealth
3. Foot Massage - Walking barefoot on sand and standing in the water will massage the soles of your feet. The sand will exfoliate your feet. No need for a fancy foot scrub. Walking on sand will exfoliate dead skin cells and make your feet feel softer. AtlanticView
4. Exposure to Sunlight - Spending just ten minutes outside in the sun can actually allow a person to absorb their daily dose of vitamin D directly through their skin. TheFactSite Vitamin D may help protect you from influenza. HealthLine Vitamin D is also good for lowering your blood pressure, supporting your immune system and helping with rheumatoid arthritis. WideOpenEats
5. Respiratory/Allergy Relief - Ocean swimming and exposure to the salt environment could provide reduced symptoms of hay fever and sinusitis, as well as other respiratory symptoms. This is because the saline effect on the lining of sinuses may reduce inflammation. TheConversation Inhalation of seal air will result in the loosening of the mucus in the respiratory tracts, which makes coughing easier and so helps clear airways. ReadersDigest
Not only is going to the beach a fun filled and relaxing way to spend the day, it is also good for you! Just remember to wear sunscreen.
