Spending a day at the beach can do wonders for us, if even for a day. Being near the ocean is relaxing and refreshing, and looking out at the horizon line and into infinity can bring a sense of calm and peace. Researchers have found that the sound of waves alters our brain patterns, and can lull us into a deeply relaxed state and rejuvenate body and mind. Also, visiting the beach encourages us to walk, to feel the sand under our feet and between our toes, and can calm us.
“The color blue has been found by an overwhelming amount of people to be associated with feelings of calm and peace,” says Richard Shuster, PsyD, clinical psychologist. “Staring at the ocean actually changes our brain waves’ frequency and puts us into a mild meditative state.”
The smell of the ocean breeze also contributes to our soothed state. It may be related to the negative ions in the ocean air that we are breathing in. Richard Shuster says, “These oxygen atoms have an extra electron and occur in places like waterfalls and the ocean. And the physical sensation of putting your feet in warm sand causes people to relax.”
Photography Credit: All photos by Jennie Richards
