Whenever we hear the song "The Body Needs the Sea," we tend to think it’s the heart that craves it. Whether it's to throw away sadness, exhaustion, or unrequited love into the sea, or to seek solace from the waves for a moment (before facing it all over again), scientifically, we can confirm with supporting reasons that our bodies truly need the sea—not just because it’s good for the heart, but because it’s also beneficial for the body.

Here are 5 reasons that affirm our bodies' need for the sea.

1. Fresh Air is Good for the Respiratory System

          Who says that only the green forests on high mountains are abundant with fresh air? The air infused with the salty scent of the sea is genuinely pure and a true friend to the respiratory system. It is rich in iodine, magnesium, and other beneficial elements for the body. Additionally, for those suffering from asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, allergies, or chronic coughs, simply moving to sleep while inhaling the sea air for just one night can lead to remarkable changes. Moreover, the air blowing in from the sea contains negative hydrogen ions, which help the body absorb oxygen better and balance serotonin levels, contributing to increased energy and reduced depression.

2. Vitamin D Strengthens the Body


          Besides becoming a stunningly tanned beauty that catches the eyes of many, sunbathing or soaking up the sun by the sea every day helps your body receive ample vitamin D. Known for its benefits, vitamin D is essential for strengthening calcium and phosphorus, which in turn helps make bones and teeth strong, aids in the absorption of vitamin A, boosts the immune system, increases endorphin levels, and even reduces the risk of cancer. When you allow your body to receive sufficient sunlight daily (about 5 – 30 minutes), the oils in your skin react with the sunlight to produce vitamin D, which is then absorbed back into the body. At this point, many who don’t want a tan might protest internally, but don’t worry, as research shows that even if you apply sunscreen before going out, you can still absorb vitamin D.

3. Sea Water Boosts Immunity


          Regularly swimming in the sea can enhance the body's immune system. This practice is known as Thalassotherapy, which is believed to have originated during Roman times thousands of years ago, where Romans believed that seawater could heal various ailments. This practice has remained popular, and even in the 19th century, coastal villages in Brittany, France, were developed into centers for seawater therapy, continuing to this day with discoveries that minerals in seawater such as magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium, and iodine are immensely beneficial for our bodies and can boost immunity. Research confirms that red blood cell levels can increase by 5 - 20% after swimming or bathing in the sea, including white blood cells. Additionally, soaking in seawater for a sufficient time can improve blood circulation. Hearing this, who wouldn’t want to plan a day off?

4. Magnesium Relieves Fatigue


          Did you know that magnesium is the most abundant element dissolved in seawater? For those exhausted from daily life, struggling with sleep issues, overthinking, anxiety, or boredom in the hustle and bustle of city life, try to relax in deep seawater for a while. The magnesium in seawater has properties that help relax the nervous system and muscles, reduce tension, and assist in converting blood sugar into energy. If you feel the urban fatigue creeping in, it’s time to head to the sea.


5. Beach Sand: The Secret to Smooth Skin


          Want smooth, clear skin without spending money at a spa? We have a better option. Take that money and book a beautiful beachfront accommodation, wait until the sun sets, and then roll around on the fine sand (make sure to avoid spots filled with stones or shells, or the results may be different). The moderate roughness of the beach sand combined with the minerals in the sand and seawater acts as a natural scrub, helping to exfoliate dead skin cells and reveal softer new skin. It also stimulates the pores to expel waste more effectively, meaning anyone with smelly feet should quickly bury their feet in the sand. This can help your feet! Additionally, there’s a new trend called ‘sand therapy’ where you dig up sand to cover your body for about 20 – 30 minutes (just like we used to do as kids) to help balance the body’s internal systems, create mineral balance, stimulate blood circulation, and expel waste through sweat.

          Furthermore, research by Dr. Ben Wheeler from the European Centre for Environment & Human Health at the University of Exeter revealed that residents living near the coast in England have better health than those living further away. Meanwhile, Rafael Nadal, one of the world’s top tennis players, has declared that he has spent his entire life near the sea. Hearing this, can you resist taking a day off and buying a new bikini?

 

Thanks for the information from www.thaihealth.or.th