Contributed by Jean Sumner
The ocean covers 71/% of earth’s surface and holds 97% of earth’s water. It is also the greatest source of oxygen, food and medicinal ingredients and is home to 80% of all living organisms. The ocean plays an important role in all of our lives even more so when we can be near or in the ocean.
Imagine sitting on the beach, listening to the great roar of the waves, feeling the ocean breeze blow through your hair and enjoying the warmth of the sun on your skin. It feels wonderful. Have you ever wondered why?
It turns out there is a significant amount of science behind the great feelings you have as you sit on the beach.
The ocean provides many stress reduction benefits as the waves put us in a meditative state. We feel happier, have an improved peace of mind, better concentration, more spontaneity and creativity. Many people also report leaving the beach with a renewed sense of purpose for their lives.
Many of us do not meditate on a regular basis. However, when you are next to the ocean it is very hard not to meditate and receive all of the wonderful benefits.
From a scientific point of view, the minerals in the sea air decrease stress and increase a sense of well being. Salt in water preserves the melatonin, tryptamine and serotonin levels in your brain. This helps fight off depression and improve your sense of well being.
Research also shows that the sounds of waves crashing on the beach alter wave patterns in the brain resulting in a calmer state.
When you swim in ocean water, the water temperature plays a major role in your emotional health. Cool ocean water in the spring and fall months provides a soothing treatment for your nerves while warmer waters in the summer months relax your muscles.
Studies indicate that the minerals contained in the ocean’s water help with arthritis, psoriasis and depression. When you spend time in the ocean you may also see positive results from other skin diseases such as rosacea, eczema and rashes from plant allergies or heat.
Ocean water contains iodine which boosts thyroid function and improves the immune system. When you are in sea water the amount of oxygen carried throughout your bloodstream is improved and more nutrients are carried through your bloodstream to fight off free radicals. Ocean water also improves circulation of blood to organs.
As the waves break on the shoreline, air particles break apart releasing ions into the atmosphere. Some scientists claim that sea air contains an abundance of negatively charged ions. In today’s society we have too many positive ions in our life. You may know positive ions by another name – free radicals. Because electricity, computers, TV and electronics are all sources of free radicals in our lives, it is easy to see why we have a shortage of negative ions. Increasing our exposure to negative ions has many health benefits including enhancing the immune system, increasing alertness and improving concentration.
So schedule your trip to the beach today and enjoy the ocean’s many health benefits!
This information is not meant to be medical advice. No action or inaction should be taken solely on the contents of this information. Instead, you should consult appropriate health professionals on any matter relating to your health and well-being.
Thanks for joining us. Remember, you can catch this show each week on Lakefront TV. To find out more about World Wellness Education check out our website at worldwellnesseducation.org. We’ll see you next time.