SEASIDE HOLIDAY – THE ULTIMATE STRESS RELIEF

THE FINDINGS OF FINANCIAL NEWS COMPANY BLOOMBERG ARE WORRYING: SOUTH AFRICA IS THE SECOND MOST STRESSED COUNTRY IN THE WORLD. AND THE FACT THAT HALF OF SOUTH AFRICANS DO NOT TAKE THEIR ANNUAL LEAVE – AS REPORTED IN A GLOBAL SURVEY BY IPSOS AND REUTERS – IS DEFINITELY A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR TO THIS ALARMING STATISTIC.

“Studies have shown that proximity to the ocean can have a positive impact on one’s stress levels,” says Grant Sandham, Group Sales & Marketing Manager of Premier Hotels & Resorts. “For example, researchers at the University of Exeter’s European Centre for the Environment and Human Health have found that the seaside significantly reduces stress, with one of the reasons cited that it encourages physical activity – a proven stress-management strategy.

“This may also be due to the ocean’s sound, which a Stanford University neuroscientist says people find calming because of its regular wave patterns. Another possible reason found by the neuroscientist is that it induces a mild meditative state

that heightens awareness of one’s surroundings and emotions,” Sandham adds.

South Africans can find out for themselves why the ocean is such an effective stress-reliever, as Premier Hotels & Resorts offers nine beachside properties, catering to all pockets, in the country’s coastal regions.

In KwaZulu-Natal, they can unwind by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean at properties like Splendid Inn Pinetown, Premier Hotel The Richards (Richards Bay), Splendid Inn Bayshore, or Splendid Inn Port Edward. While in the Western Cape, they can mellow out at Premier Resort The Moorings (Knysna) on the banks of the lagoon, or enjoy the tranquillity of the Atlantic’s waves from Premier Hotel Cape Town. In the Eastern Cape, those staying at Premier Hotel East London ICC, Premier Hotel Regent or Splendid Inn King David, can de-stress while enjoying the ocean spray from the East London Esplanade.

“Stress can have a negative impact both on your body and your behaviour. Non-profit medical practice and research group, the Mayo Clinic, states clearly that stress can lead to health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes, as well as anxiety, depression and substance abuse,” says Sandham. “With 2017 having been especially stressful for South Africans, given our current economic situation, it is important for our health and wellbeing that we take a well-deserved break to relax and recharge”.

Visit www.premierhotels.co.za for more information.