Why sea air is good for you

We all love being by the sea but what is it that makes us feel so good?

l It’s a multi-sensory experience. The sight, smell and sound of the ocean all induce relaxation and once we peel off the layers to paddle, swim or walk barefoot in the sand, it becomes a fully immersive experience. l Natural environments have been proven to reduce stress, and water, in particular, can help recovery from mental and physical fatigue. l Sea air has proven respiratory benefits and many people with asthma and allergies find that spending time by the sea helps to improve their symptoms. l Blue is the most popular colour worldwide and is associated with serenity. On a sunny day when your view encompasses the ocean and the sky, it’s a double hit of calm. l It helps you to sleep. The combination of breathing fresh sea air, increased activity and reduced feelings of stress improves the quality of your sleep. l Blue exercise (activity on, in or by the water) is exercise with added benefits. For example, walking on the beach, swimming in the sea, or paddling an SUP (stand up paddleboard) or kayak, are all great low-impact activities with the added mental health boost of being close to the water. l You get to dose up on vitamin D. Being close to a large body of water reflects the sun’s rays and gives your body what it needs to make plenty of this health-giving vitamin that many of us lack. l It brings out the child in everyone. Children say their families are more likely to interact with them on the beach than in a park or playground or at home.