If merely looking at this featured image makes you happy, relaxed, free, and excited to sit back on that chair in front of a lovely seascape, then it’s confirmed: you need to have beach therapy. (Well, aren’t we all?)
After months of being stuck at home, we’re pretty sure all of us are longing to travel again. We want to see the world again, from local travel destinations to the best spots around the globe. We want to update our IG feeds and feel the freedom that was once lost during the pandemic. And if you’re looking for a perfect destination for your next trip, make it a place that’s not only picturesque but therapeutic as well: a beach.
Whether it’s a relaxing, romantic seaside hotel accommodation or a lively, family-friendly resort, here are 7 reasons why you need a beach vacation.
1. Free yourself from stress and anxiety
Are you overwhelmed at work? Did the pandemic and the so-called “new normal” aggravate your stress, anxiety, and depression? Do you need a perfect time and place to breathe, unwind, and revitalize? Perhaps a beach vacation might be a cure.
Research from Wellington New Zealand found that residents within eyesight of “blue space” like ocean views, appeared to suffer much less from psychological distress. The presence of water, from the sights of blue to the soothing sounds of crashing waves, has a significant calming effect.
While it’s a dream to live in a coastal area, it’s not always possible. What you can do, however, is to embark on a beach getaway from time to time. Serotonin, a key hormone for relaxation and happiness, is immediately released when you arrive on the beach.
2. You’ll sleep better
You’ll notice a great and deep night’s sleep after just a few hours at the beach. That’s a holy grail if you’re suffering from insomnia. Quality sleep is linked to the fact that the beach relieves high stress and anxiety levels, fatigue, and hormonal imbalances.
Make your sleep even better by booking a beachside hotel, which provides the best of both: easy access to the beach and comfortable and cozy accommodation to sleep in.
3. Give yourself a healthier heart and pair of lungs
The sea provides a wealth of long-term health benefits for the heart and lungs. These include cardiovascular health benefits linked to heart disease prevention. Individuals with asthma, COPD, and other breathing difficulties will also notice that it’s easier to breathe when on the beach than anywhere else. The air itself is charged with negative ions that help increase oxygen absorption in the lungs.
4. Say goodbye to aches
Are you complaining about headaches, backaches, and heart irregularities due to stress and fatigue? Submerging yourself in water through water aerobics (like swimming) will help you feel better for weeks.
5. A fun way to get your healthy dose of Vitamin D
You’ve heard of the “Vitamin sea” pun (yes, I know that’s the most cliche of all cliches) but have you ever heard that it’s also packed with Vitamin D?
It’s one of the most essential vitamins in our diets. However, only a small amount of it is absorbed through food consumption. Moreover, there’s a big chance you lack Vitamin D because of months of staying indoors.
It takes only 10 minutes outside in the sun for you to absorb your daily dose of Vitamin D through your skin. What better way to get the dose than having sand and sea waters on your feet?
6. Your skin will thank you
Looking for a lovely way to get that nice glow? A quick dip into the salty waters might be the key.
We’re not talking about baking yourself in the sun until you’re tan (you need sunscreen). Rather, we’re referring to the antibacterial and detoxification components of the saltwater. Once the sun opens up the pores, the saltwater will then pull out the toxins. It also helps clean and fight off infections when you have wounds – that explains the sting.
Need to exfoliate to remove dead skin cells? You’re surrounded by lovely sand which does an amazing job.
7. You’ll notice improved productivity
If you’re suffering from work-related burnouts, going to the beach is the perfect way to take a break. All these health benefits will work together to make you more focused and motivated, thus productive when you return to work.
Internal studies conducted by firms like Ernst & Young and Boston Consulting Group concluded that employees who were required to take time off were significantly more productive than those who spent more time working. Frequent vacationers have seen their performance ratings improved.
If you’re looking for the best excuse to ask your boss for a day off, this is it.
Author Bio: Carmina Natividad is one of the passionate writers for Ocean Sands Hotel, Ireland’s leading beachside hotel in Enniscrone, County Sligo. Her fondness for travel, food, and cultural appreciation makes it easy for her to write inspiring pieces of content about them.
