We really do like to be beside the sea
Coasts boost mental and physical health
LEISURE: People are happiest when visiting beaches, rocky shores and coastlines, according to a study of favourite natural environments.
Coasts have a therapeutic effect on people, boosting well being and mental health, according to a Defra study which was drawn from 46 peerreviewed papers.
PEOPLE ARE happiest when visiting beaches, rocky shores and coastlines, according to a study of favourite natural environments.
Coasts have a therapeutic effect on people, boosting well being and mental health, according to a Defra study drawn from 46 peer-reviewed papers.
It reported that those living by the sea have better mental health than those who are further inland and do more physical activity in what is known as the “blue gym effect”, the analysis said.
There is even a small effect on childhood obesity with youngsters living by the sea in coastal rural areas and smaller towns and cities slightly less likely to be obese (0.68 per cent lower).
Coast dwellers have higher levels of Vitamin D from higher UV exposure, and generally report higher levels of general health compared to those living further away.
Retired coastguard John Haxby, from Filey, said: “It’s a nice, peaceful environment, the pace of life is slower.
“You have seven miles of beach to walk on and all the scenery and beauty that brings – Flamborough Head to the south and Filey Brigg to the north, and a nice calm bay between.”
Mal Nicholson, owner of the Grimsby-based replica of Lord Nelson’s famous messenger ship HMS Pickle, said the sea was a “tranquil and uncluttered space where you can collect your thoughts and leave the humdrum of normal life behind.”
However the review warns that human activity and climate change means the coastal environment is facing an “unprecedented” challenge from factors including pollution, as well as rising seas and flooding.
Nearly 1 million homes in England and Wales are forecast to be at significant risk of tidal flooding by 2080.
The review was done in collaboration with Exeter University and Plymouth Marine Laboratory.
Plymouth Marine Laboratory.’s head of science for sea and society, Professor Nicola Beaumont, said: “With millions of us visiting the coast every year, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that we have the right measures in place to allow our marine environment to thrive.”