There is nothing better than walking in a park, walking in the forest, exploring the desert and strolling by the sea breathing the sea air. Nature allows us to relax, far from the urban noise and the stressful environment of the city.
It is recommended, according to scientists, to make regular contact with the good waves of the nature, in particular, to soak up the marine air particularly enriched in oxygen and in negative ions, soothing for the body.
The seawater, the sand beneath our feet, the oxygen of the air, the iodine and the waves that caress our body are real stimulants for our body and give rise to a natural and especially free thalassotherapy. So why not enjoy it?
In a study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, J. Aaron Hipp, Assistant Professor and Environmental Health Expert at Brown School, found that sand, sun, and water exercise have therapeutic benefits to our health. mental and physical. He added that it is advisable to go regularly to the beach during low tide and when the air temperature is mild so as to particularly benefit from the beneficial and restorative elements of the sea such as sea air and iodine to ventilate and oxygenate the lungs.
Reasons to go to the beach regularly
Aquatic exercises
Seawater is mainly rich in minerals, such as iodine, potassium, magnesium that can detoxify the body or fight some infections. Iodine is micronized in droplets of seawater, in seaweeds; it is essential for our body to develop thyroid hormones. Thus, many studies have shown that water exercise and swimming help reduce stress, depression and anxiety, while intensively working the muscle groups of the body.
For its part, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that swimming for 2.5 hours a week can help improve heart health and reduce the likelihood of chronic illness. It is a non-health sport that also helps to repair muscle injuries and relieve joint pain, including arthritis.
In addition, according to Dr. Hoareau, a specialist in marine therapies and stress management, iodine loaded with minerals and trace elements provides a skin benefit. It is also recommended not to shower immediately after a sea bath to allow the skin to absorb all minerals, away from the sun, without fear of drying out.
Sand
The soles of the feet consist of hundreds of nerve endings and sweat glands per square centimeter. Walking barefoot means that the stimulation of the soles of the feet is more optimal than with shoes. Moreover, according to Dr. Thierry M. Lejeune, co-author of the study, the ability of muscles to perform mechanical work while walking or running on sand is much higher than on any hard surface. In addition to strengthening the muscles, walking barefoot on the sand allows a deep connection with the earth, source of well-being and good mood.
The sun
It is well known that the sun is a non-negligible source of vitamin D essential for bone mineralization and good absorption of calcium. Daily sun exposure of 10 to 20 minutes is recommended. The sun also helps to increase endorphins in the body and reduces the development of autoimmune diseases, which result from a dysfunction of the immune system. It goes without saying that overexposure to the sun increases the risk of skin cancer. Also, protect yourself and apply sunscreen or wear protective clothing.
Contemplate the sea and listen to the sound of the waves
François Solesmes in his book, "From a Shore" wrote: "it is enough to see the sea so that it instills in the body an immediate and deep sleep". For its part, the sound of the waves makes it possible to let go of the ballast and identifies with our breathing to obtain peace and serenity; so why deprive yourself?
According to Dominique Hoareau, the sound and ions released by the waves release the body from stress and slow down the heart rate.
So enjoy the beach with all the variety of benefits it gives us. No need to take the boat and take off, a simple walk or a refreshing swim are sufficient; it's still not the sea to drink!