If you’re anything like me, you know that Seaside living feels like a magical place that has the power to revitalize; physically, mentally and spiritually, especially with the heart of the holidays approaching.
We have long taken for granted that a lungful of sea air and getting sand between our toes is good for our well-being. But does being by the seaside really make a difference to health? I truly believe it can. As I went about my busy day, between early morning drop offs for the children to mid-afternoon meetings, I finally came home to take my dog for a brisk walk and the sudden smell of the fresh salty sea air hit me, even two blocks away from the ocean. It completely calmed my restless mind. It took me by surprise actually, it’s like a cool but refreshing wake-up call.
Sometimes I think what we are missing is connection with the natural environment. It can really reduce stress in our lives, even if for just a few moments at a time. After doing a bit of research this is what I found. The reason that sea air decreases stress and makes you feel great may be explained by the minerals in it, along with the fact that sea air consists of a significant amount of negatively charged ions. Did you ever notice how you feel better – invigorated – after a lightning rainstorm? This is due to the release of negative ions. The ocean spray, which is loaded with negative ions, helps strengthen immunological (aka, your immune system) defense mechanisms, and the iodine in the ocean mist helps regulate the thyroid gland and balance the serotonin levels which are connected to mood and stress. In our world we are exposed to many positive ions (free radicals) from computers, electricity, TVs and more. Breathing in the sea air is so uplifting!
Living on the Peninsula we are surrounded by a health-giving jewel! We should remember this as the days get darker and we have a tendency to stay indoors longer. Why not take that long-lasting flashlight, waiting in the bottom drawer in case of a storm, out for a walk tonight along your favourite beach access?
We would love to get feedback on our redesigned First and Last Word. The design has struck a note for me, because Sue secretly sells Seasides by the seashore and the Seasides she sells are Seaside’s, I’m sure! Let us know what you think!
