The Sea and Our Souls this Summer!

Why is it that we all feel so much better when we are near water? Why is the Sea so good for our souls? Whether it's the seafront, a lake, river, waterfall, pond, swimming in a pool or even taking a bath. Just looking out at the movement of water and surrounding nature can calm or reenergise us as humans. 

Even the colour blue has universal appeal. The special benefits of living or being near the Sea have been true since the dawn of humanity. Here are 10 real health benefits you may have experienced yourself...(for more details read the full article on Costa Blanco's Grupo VAPF's '10 health benefits of living by the sea'). 

'Here are 10 reasons why living by the sea will make you happier and healthier:

It will relax your body and mind: The human brain reacts positively to what is called “blue space”, which means that we feel more relaxed when we see the sea. Seeing the sea, listening to the waves, and swimming in the water gives our brains a rest and helps us feel more connected with our surroundings. The sound and colour of the waves calms and rejuvenates our body and mind.

Your mood will improve: The iodine in the sea breeze balances our serotonin levels, reducing anxiety and stress. That’s why people who live near the sea show higher levels of happiness.

You will fall asleep more easily: The sea breeze accelerates the body’s ability to absorb oxygen, which helps us rest. Water, sunlight, fresh air, and exercise help our bodies get ready to sleep.

Vitamin D will strengthen your body: Vitamin D is vital, and spending time under the Mediterranean sun will give you the dose you need. Vitamin D helps combat depression and strengthens bones, the immune system, and the digestive system. What’s more, the sunlight will give you healthier hair, nails, and skin.

Your lungs will thank you: The salty sea breeze is rich in iodine and sea salts which clean our lungs, reduce the need for antibiotics, help clear our sinuses, and ease our breathing.

It’s good for your heart: People who live in towns by the sea have a healthier heartbeat. This is down to the fact that the air pressure is higher and so the amount of oxygen in the air is also higher.

The sea is a natural healer: Sea salt helps to heal wounds. The iodine in salt is a natural bactericide, which means that acne, cuts, or even internal inflammations will heal faster after a swim in the sea.

It will protect your immune system: The iodine in the sea breeze helps the immune system, so living in areas near the sea will protect you against illnesses and infections.

You will feel the benefits of magnesium: Salt water fills the skin with magnesium, an element which is necessary for muscular function, blood clotting, and the metabolism of nutrients. It also helps to normalise the production of thyroid hormones and aids the absorption of phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium.

The beach is the best gym: Doing exercise on the beach has a positive effect on joints and muscles. Practising sports in the peace and tranquillity of the sea helps the brain to concentrate better and makes the activity more worthwhile. Swimming or diving are good for people who have fluid retention problems and heaviness in the legs; underwater sports are good for reducing and getting rid of varicose veins; and floating in the sea redirects blood from the extremities to the abdominal area and the brain, improving circulation and making people more alert and active.'

We agree, we have found each of these to be true. More importantly, these much needed benefits, are needed this year more than ever!

Here in Ireland, its been an unusual Summer (like everywhere during this Covid 19 Pandemic!) Irish people have not been able to travel to the sunny Coastal spots of Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, Florida etc as easily as they have for prior Summer holidays. Many Irish people have flocked to the Coastline here in Ireland this Summer instead. Witnessing the stunning and majestic beauty of our own coastline, driving the Wild Atlantic Way route, renting houses or staying in guest accommodation closer to home but near the Coast.

It's been a unique Summer. Having emerged from the lockdown of months of staying home, venturing out has brought Irish people to the Ocean to walk, play, breath, swim, sail, boat, eat and relax. Discovering new places close to home that can feed the soul with all those 'Seaworthy' health benefits. It's been very good for us all. Keeping that connection with the Sea throughout the year is going to make the uncertain times ahead more bearable too. So hopefully, you have all found your own special spot to visit for a quick getaway, whether you are here in Ireland or elsewhere.

We will get back to those sunny locales for subsequent Summer holidays never fear! For now keep connected with that special spot you have found close to home, visit for a walk along the shore, a day trip, or a weekend getaway for now. Remember all the good things you are doing for your body and your soul as you connect with the Sea here in Ireland or at home!

(Follow us on Instagram @wildatlantique to see some amazing photographer's images we highlight. Detailing special spots worth a visit all along the Irish Coastline!)