There’s a reason why so many people want to live or holiday by the ocean. Spending time by the sea is good for our health and for the soul. There is something calming and soothing about being near the ocean and the water itself has many healing properties.

Benefits for the body
Ocean water has a higher concentration of mineral salts such as sodium, chloride, sulphate, magnesium and calcium. This can be soothing for skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, and in some cases improve symptoms. It can also help to clean and heal wounds.

The magnesium in sea water can help to reduce inflammation and muscle pain, and also hydrate and moisturise the skin.

Swimming in the ocean can also help hay fever sufferers. In studies, nasal irrigation or flushing your nose with a salty solution has been shown to reduce inflammation in the sinuses and help with infections.

Benefits for the mind
Research has proven that being near the sea can make you happier, improve your wellbeing and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

In 2014, a marine biologist published the book “Blue Mind”. A “blue mind” refers to the relaxed, mildly meditative state we experience when we are in, on or under water. In addition to some of the benefits already mentioned, they found being near sea water can enhance creativity and improve the quality of conversations.

Next time you get a chance, go to the ocean. It will leave you feeling rejuvenated!