Escape to the Beach

“For whatever we lose (like a you or a me), it’s always our self we find in the sea.”  — E.E. Cummings

We at Escape the Screens have something to admit: we aren’t very good at taking down time. We have to actively try to relax, which is as hilarious as it sounds. Striving to be your best self each day takes an enormous amount of energy, but everyone does need time to recharge. One of our favorite ways to do this is to hit the beach.

The ocean is awesome (literally awe inspiring). All you have to do is stop to watch the waves roll against the sand to see why. Individuals reported significantly better mental and general health when living nearer to the coast¹. As a result of where they live, coastal residents see huge benefits from proximity to the beach. Beach residents tend to be physically more active, breathe in more fresh air and have a better daily dose of vitamin D². This is especially true for elderly residents. It’s not only the sights and sounds, but even the ocean breeze. The smell of the ocean contributes to a soothed state, possibly due to the salt adding negative ions to the air which can treat seasonal affective disorder³.

All of the above adds up to a pretty refreshing experience. We understand we can’t all live at the beach, but we can all visit one (or a lake or a pool). While there, it is up to you how to relax. Read a book while listening to the waves. Play a beach sport like volleyball or bag toss. Do a morning run across the sand. No matter what you pick, put away your technology. Don’t be one of those people who spends hundreds (or thousands) of dollars on a beach trip only to do the same thing you would do from your couch. Be mindful. Be present. Enjoy the beach.

Action: Plan a getaway to a beach, lake, or pool. Disconnect and take in every sight, sound, and smell.

Further Reading:

1. Coastal proximity, health and well-being: Results from a longitudinal panel survey
2. Effects of the Coastal Environment on Well-being
3. Treatment of seasonal affective disorder with a high-output negative ionizer