How the Beach Affects our Senses
It is no secret that the beach is a happy place for many, but is there a psychological explanation - or is the “happy place” simply a result of pop culture and cultural conditioning?
Simply put, Studies show that individuals living on the coast tend to have better physical and psychological health than those who live inland. Let's explore how the ocean affects the senses.
According to psychologists, the sound of waves activates the parasympathetic nervous system which is responsible for the body’s fight or flight response. Also known as the “rest and digest” state, this system controls the body's ability to relax. Moreover, ocean sounds engage the prefrontal cortex which is associated with emotion and self-reflection. It can also work to decrease cortisol levels which induce stress. That explains why laying down with your eyes closed on the beach can be so relaxing! Try putting headphones on and see if you get the same effect.
When we look at the ocean, generally we see the color blue. The color blue has been proven to evoke feelings of tranquility in most people. Additionally, it is known to facilitate creativity in the brain. Moreover, the ocean’s flat surface gives us the ability to see miles in the distance. In other words, it gives us a vantage point where our brains can assess that there is no potential threat. According to studies, looking out into the ocean changes the frequency of our brain waves, resulting in a mild meditative state.
Ocean mist does an interesting thing – it is a combination of oxygen with an extra electron attached via water molecules. This combination produces negative ions which have been shown by researchers to produce an anti-depressant effect. This can also help alleviate Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Our feet absorb free ions similarly to our lungs. The earth’s charge is negative, and as we connect our feet to its surface, we are triggering a tingling warm sensation by way of the many nerves and acupuncture points within them. This creates a stimulating benefit for the body as well as the mind.
Next time you get a chance, take a trip to the beach and pay attention to your senses. You’ll realize that going to the beach to relax is an activity normalized by our culture for a reason. The benefits aren’t simply psychological – it’s Physiology, Biology, and Chemistry all intertwined!
