This is a response to 4 Beaches That Will Turn You Into A Beach Bum.
Visual & Sensory Effects
Research has shown that the sight of the ocean itself calms us as humans. The visuals of waves, the sounds of them, and their cycle of the tides has a calming effect on our brains. There have been many studies done on the stress levels of people who live by a body of water vs. those who are land-locked, and there is almost always a higher correlation between people who live by water with lower levels of stress.
Things To Do
When on vacation or if you are lucky enough to live by the ocean, you probably know there are plenty of things to do in the ocean. For starters, there's the classic Jumping in the Waves. Easy enough, doesn't require any equipment. Plus, it's fun to do with family or friends and have a casual conversation as you swim about. After that, though, you can also boogie board, surf, stand-up-paddleboard (if the waves are calm enough), and many other things. I personally love a good boogie board session with my dad every family vacation. Surfing is also amazing for your physical and mental health, and many people become addicted to the hobby because of the way they feel during and after it.
How It Works: My Personal Theory
To be honest, I'm not sure why the ocean has the effect that it does on us, but I think it's really cool. There are studies that could probably explain how it works, but here's my personal theory: the ocean is huge, and vast, and there's something about looking out onto a horizon that is so much bigger than you can even see and understand that makes the daily problems and small stresses feel exactly that - small. It helps us see the bigger picture of all that is around us, and that there is more that the world and our lives have to offer than little worries. Also, the ocean is kind of scary. I think most people could agree on that. I love the ocean, and part of my love for it is because I fear it a little bit. It holds a whole other world inside it, one that I can't understand but trust and respect. So when we, as humans, venture into this other world with wild waves and tides that our Moon controls, it all feels very awe-striking and intimidating, and exhilarating because of that. It makes us feel more capable, brave, and connected to our Earth with all its wildness.
Whether you choose to lay on the beach and admire the waves from afar or get in and enjoy them, I hope the ocean can bring you some type of peace and happiness this summer.
