We already know that living in the countryside is fantastic for your mental health, with green spaces often seen as de-stressing environments that have a positive impact on your wellbeing.
But it turns out that living by the sea might be even better still. Here are four reasons why you may want to move to the coast right now…
1. SEA AIR HELPS YOU SLEEP BETTER
‘Sea air is good for sleep because it is generally cleaner and fresher air, with higher levels of oxygen, which can improve sleep,’ Dr Natasha Bijlani, a consultant psychiatrist at the Priory’s Roehampton Hospital, London, told Metro.
‘The sound of waves can be very soothing to the brain. If you relax, this can help clear the mind, lower stress levels and strengthen your immune system.’
2. THE SEA HELPS YOU RELAX AND DESTRESS
The seaside is also often linked to happy holidays for most people, and is associated with feeling relaxed, calm and rested.
As you take in the vastness of the ocean before you, it can also help put things into perspective. Small worries may seem unimportant as you look in awe at the coming waves.
3. YOU’RE MORE LIKELY TO EXERCISE
Living by the sea is like having your own massive swimming pool, which offers you the chance to exercise for free. You don’t need to join a gym to use pool facilities, but can just head on down to the beach for no cost at all.
Swimming in the sea not only offers a mental break but is great for your physical health too, helping manage weight, decreasing risk of heart disease, and lowering blood pressure.
Swimming is not the only form of exercise that is available by the coast though. You can take part in sailing, surfing, coastal walking, and wildlife watching, and more. The environment can be a great motivator.
4. LIVING BY THE SEA IS MORE CALMING THAN GREEN SPACES
Clearly, living by the sea is more calming than staying in towns and cities. But according to a 2016 study, it’s actually even more calming than green spaces. This is because the sea is all natural and provides a sense of space, openness and fresh air.
Historically, patients were often sent away for holidays by the sea to help improve their health. These uncrowded places can reduce stress levels.
So if you don’t live by the coast, you could always book that much-deserved seaside holiday to feel the benefits of coastal living.
