‘Vitamin Sea’: how sea exposure can boost your mental and physical well-being

Everyone can benefit from the health properties of saltwater. Whether you engage in diving or not, salt water provides us with a natural healing power that enhances our well-being — and the best part? It doesn't cost a thing.

If you have ever strolled along the sea while feeling sad and overwhelmed, or if you have dipped your toes in the ocean after a stressful day, then you have probably already experienced the positive impact of being on or near the water. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore or gently lapping the sand, the refreshing coolness of the water, and the vast expanse of it all have the ability to revitalize, renew, and refresh you. Whether you enjoy heading out on a paddle board at sunset, taking an early morning swim, or simply walking along the beach whenever you feel like it, the magic of the sea is undeniable.

Despite claims of being a placebo effect, extensive research over the years has consistently demonstrated that the sea can significantly benefit our mental health and overall well-being. Studies have revealed that the coastal environment serves as a therapeutic and rejuvenating landscape, fostering both physical and mental wellness. Individuals residing near the ocean tend to report better mental health outcomes than those living farther inland.

Everyone can benefit from the health properties of saltwater. Whether you engage in diving or not, salt water provides us with a natural healing power that enhances our well-being — and the best part? It doesn't cost a thing. There is a scientific explanation for how saltwater, which covers over 68% of the Earth's surface, can positively impact each and every one of us. It's no coincidence that the human body is made up of a similar percentage of this valuable liquid.

Consider this: Have you ever wondered why you feel rejuvenated at the beach or out at sea (if you have your sea legs)? We have scientific evidence supporting the health benefits of saltwater, demonstrating that it goes beyond just a state of mind.

Keep reading to explore our top recommended advantages of saltwater.

1. Revitalize Yourself with Saltwater

Due to the high levels of magnesium in salt water, spending time in or near the ocean can assist in regulating muscle and nerve function, balancing blood sugar levels, and enhancing sleep quality. This can leave you feeling revitalized. Additionally, the soothing sounds of the waves contribute to harmonizing your body's internal clock. Magnesium is an essential element for our well-being, yet many people lack an adequate amount of it.

2. Enhance Your Skin with Salt Water

Vitamin sea is not just a clever ocean-related phrase; it emphasizes the significance of salt water as a crucial nutrient for our largest organ—our skin! So, is salt water beneficial for your skin? Absolutely! Salt water, being alkaline and packed with minerals such as magnesium, zinc, iron, and potassium, can aid in reducing inflammation, shielding the skin, and promoting the healing of wounds. Moreover, salt water can boost lymph fluid circulation, potentially minimizing cellulite appearance.

Did you know: Seaweed is effective in combating skin aging signs?

3. Salt Water Enhances Absorption of Trace Minerals

Trace minerals are essential for the proper functioning and development of our bodies. Interestingly, salt water contains a rich array of these vital nutrients, such as magnesium, manganese, cobalt, sodium, calcium, potassium, and boron. Fortunately, you don't need to consume saltwater to benefit from these trace minerals; they can be absorbed by your body through your skin when you are in or near the ocean!

4. Salt Water Enhances Respiratory Function

Engaging in activities like swimming, diving, or simply floating in salt water can improve your breathing. In fact, it can relieve symptoms associated with hay fever, sinusitis, and asthma. The saline content in ocean water reduces inflammation and mirrors the body's natural fluids.  

Moreover, the high salt content in sea air makes it denser. As you breathe in sea air, it can help clear your throat and respiratory system, leading to more comfortable breathing and better quality sleep. Additionally, breathing sea air can keep you more alert and energetic during the day due to its cooler nature.

5. Salt Water Connects Us to the Earth

Have you ever experienced a sense of tranquility while walking barefoot on the beach? This feeling is scientifically known as "grounding." Our bodies can accumulate positive electrons in the form of free radicals. Direct contact with sand and salt water, which carry negative charges, helps to balance this out. This explains why you may feel more invigorated and relaxed whenever you're at the beach — and why many of us are naturally drawn to the sea.

6. Salt Water Strengthens Immunity

Did you know that salt water has been proven to boost weakened immune systems, treat anemia, and regulate high blood sugar levels? Modern medicine is increasingly utilizing salt water for its immune-boosting properties. By leveraging the benefits of salt water, we can fortify our defenses against viruses, bacteria, and pathogens. Interestingly, our blood plasma shares similarities with salt water.

7. Salt Water Promotes Relaxation

While soaking in a bathtub of salt water may not necessarily calm your nerves, a visit to a sea or ocean will likely have a soothing effect. 

Whether it's the gentle waves caressing a sandy shore or the powerful ocean waves crashing against a barrier, the mesmerizing movements of water can induce a sense of tranquility. Observing and listening to the water's rhythmic patterns can help you enter a carefree state of mind, akin to the focus achieved during mindfulness or meditation.

8. Saltwater Supports Digestive Cleansing

Indeed, salt water, when ingested in the correct amount (and this is crucial), can aid in cleansing the large intestine. This process, triggered by consuming a small quantity of salt water, induces a detoxifying effect, eliminating toxins, waste, and potential parasites. It is important to note that most of the evidence supporting this claim is anecdotal rather than scientifically proven. 

Furthermore, if you have ever accidentally swallowed sea water while at the beach, you might be encountering this purifying impact more often than you'd like.