Summer wouldn’t be summer without a trip to the beach, whether that’s in the UK or abroad. The majority of us are lucky enough to have happy memories of the sea’s magic. The feeling of warm sand between our toes, the sound of waves crashing, the sight of the open ocean, and the salty tang on our tongues. Coastal living and being by the sea brings us feelings of adventure and aliveness, as well as a deep sense of calm and tranquillity. It is a place we go to unwind, relax and escape. However, can we access this feeling from home too? The short answer is yes! While there are some scientific reasons behind why vitamin sea is so important for us, the placebo effect of our connection to the sea also brings calm, meaning that coastal home decor can help you access this feeling at any time. So, why is spending time by the ocean so good for your wellbeing? We explore a few reasons below.
1. The colour blue
The colour blue has been found by a vast number of people to be associated with feelings of calm and peace. Our brain waves frequency is actually changed by staring at the blueness of the ocean and it puts us into a mild meditative state.
2. Negative ions
The smell of the ocean breeze is also soothing. This could be to do with the negative ions in the air. Oxygen atoms with an extra electron occur in places like waterfalls and the ocean. Some believe that negative ion therapy could be used to treat seasonal affective disorder.
3. Waves
The ebb and flow of waves on the beach are also calming. After being so overwhelmed by information and stimulation, our brains enjoy the gentle de-stimulation of watching waves, which activates our parasympathetic nervous systems. This slows us down and allows us to relax and feel more present. The noise of waves breaking on rocks also stimulates the production of feel-good chemicals, such as serotonin and dopamine.
4. Positive association
But it turns out there’s a placebo effect happening too. Our conditioning and positive associations with the beach make us think of it as a place of peace and relaxation. We expect to feel calmer, so we do. Hence why you can help your mind access a calmer, happier and more present state that the sea creates through coastal home accessories too. Of course, nothing beats immersing yourself in the real thing but at least it will keep you going until you can get to the water again.