For many, heading to the beach is part of any summer vacation. But if you’re not quite convinced (or if you’re more of a “mountains” person), here are a few good health-related reasons for taking a trip to the shore:
Vitamin D
While too much sun is definitely bad for your skin, the sun in small doses is good for it. Sunlight actually triggers the synthesis of vitamin D in your body, which can help your immune system and improve your skin by minimizing acne, boosting elasticity, and reducing lines and dark spots. In fact, if you don’t get enough vitamin D, it could be harmful to your health. There are several research studies that suggest that a deficiency in vitamin D can increase the risk of several cancers as well as disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, tuberculosis, osteoporosis, and multiple sclerosis.
Salt Water
There are several benefits to being exposed to salt water. It can not only reduce symptoms in those with rheumatoid arthritis, it can also preserve the elasticity in your skin. Seawater is full of unseen minerals that can tighten your skin’s appearance and give you a more youthful glow.
Less Stress
Relaxing on a beach is a great way to reduce stress - from listening to the waves crash and the seagulls caw to letting the sun warm up your body. However, taking a beach vacation has also scientifically been proven to reduce stress. In study by the Baker Heart Research Institute, participants were exposed to various amounts of sunlight, and as the exposure increased, so did their serotonin levels, which lead to a positive effect on stress. Another study by Michigan State University showed that living in a location where you can see a lot of blue space (like a body of water) will reduce your levels of “psychological distress.”
Exfoliation
Sand is a natural exfoliant that can smooth away even the roughest skin; it can work wonders on the heels and toes of calloused feet or on working hands. So the next time you go to the beach, don’t worry if you get sandy - you’ll actually be sloughing off dead skin cells and revealing brighter, healthier ones.
Easy Breathing
If you suffer from asthma, allergies, COPD, or breathing difficulties, head to the beach. Not only will your chest muscles relax as soon as you step onto the sand, but the air is charged with negative ions, which will help your lungs increase their oxygen absorption. Plus, who doesn’t love the smell of ocean air?