Vitamin Sea: Why a beach holiday is the best thing you can do for your mental and physical wellbeing this year

When work gets overwhelming and your December holiday is a distant memory, it may be time for a mini-break to rejuvenate body and soul, and the KZN South Coast is the ideal destination for year-round beach walks – with so many benefits for your health!

Being close to the beach and listening to the sounds of the ocean has many benefits for your mental state of mind. Whether it’s the soothing rhythm of the waves or the peaceful, pristine stretches of sandy coastline, the beach has a unique ability to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve overall wellbeing.

Soothing sounds of the sea

The sound of the ocean is often described as calming and meditative. Studies have shown that the soothing sounds of the ocean waves can have a significant impact on reducing stress and anxiety levels. The rhythmic, repetitive sounds of breaking waves help to lower cortisol levels (the hormone associated with stress), and create a sense of peace and tranquility.

The sound of the ocean and the vastness of the beach encourage mindfulness — the practice of being fully present in the moment. Listening to the waves and feeling the sand under your feet can encourage you to disconnect from daily worries and focus on the present. This kind of mindfulness practice can help to reduce rumination (repeatedly thinking about past events or future worries), which is often linked to anxiety and depression.

Better quality sleep

Being near the beach can have a positive impact on sleep, especially when accompanied by the sounds of the ocean. The steady, rhythmic sound of waves has been shown to help you fall asleep more easily and sleep more soundly. The consistency of the sound can act as white noise, blocking out disruptive or distracting sounds. This can create an ideal environment for relaxation, allowing the brain to ease into a more restful state.

Additionally, exposure to natural sunlight during the day can help regulate circadian rhythms, improving sleep patterns. The combination of a relaxing environment and exposure to natural elements makes the beach an ideal setting for promoting restorative sleep.

The blue space theory

Spending time near the beach or listening to the ocean can elevate mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Research has shown that spending time near water — known as blue space — is associated with increased feelings of well-being. The calming effect of the ocean sound, combined with the natural beauty of the beach, can create a positive, uplifting atmosphere. Studies have suggested that being near the ocean or water can increase the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and feelings of happiness.

Disconnect and recharge –  no batteries required

The combination of natural surroundings and the calming sounds of the ocean can promote deep relaxation and recovery. Many people find that spending time by the ocean helps them unwind and recharge, reducing feelings of fatigue or burnout. The beach offers a space to disconnect from digital distractions and work-related stress, which can be mentally and emotionally exhausting. This break from the demands of modern life can allow the mind and body to recover, rejuvenating both physical and mental health.

Move more… for a better mood

The beach provides a natural environment for physical activity, which is also important for mental health. Walking on the beach, swimming in the ocean, or engaging in water sports like surfing or paddleboarding can help improve mood and mental clarity. Physical exercise releases endorphins, which are natural chemicals in the brain that help improve mood and reduce pain perception. Physical activity also reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression by lowering cortisol levels and increasing the production of serotonin.

Walking barefoot on the sand is good for mind and body

Even simple activities like walking barefoot along the shore or meditating on the sand can promote a sense of well-being and mental relaxation.

Walking barefoot on the sand is not just a relaxing activity—it offers numerous grounding benefits for both your mind and body. Grounding, also known as “earthing,” refers to the practice of making direct physical contact with the earth, allowing the body to absorb the energy of the natural environment. When you walk barefoot on the sand, you are engaging in a form of grounding that has been linked to a variety of mental and physical health benefits.

One of the most significant benefits of walking barefoot on sand is the improvement of your mental health. The sensation of the soft sand underfoot can help you feel more connected to the present moment, reducing stress and anxiety.

Physically, walking barefoot on sand helps strengthen the muscles in your feet and legs. Unlike walking on hard surfaces, sand requires more effort to navigate, which can improve balance and coordination. The uneven surface also activates different muscles in your feet and lower body, providing a gentle workout. Additionally, grounding is believed to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and promote better sleep by balancing the body’s natural electrical charge.

Don’t forget your free daily dose of Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for overall health, playing a critical role in maintaining strong bones, supporting immune function, and regulating mood. One of its primary functions is aiding the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, two minerals necessary for bone health. Without enough vitamin D, bones can become weak, leading to conditions like rickets in children and osteomalacia or osteoporosis in adults.

Beyond bone health, vitamin D is crucial for the immune system. It helps activate immune cells that defend against infections, reducing the risk of illnesses like the flu or colds. Additionally, studies suggest that vitamin D may help in reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Vitamin D also plays a significant role in mental health. Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), particularly during the darker months.

The most natural way to get vitamin D is through sunlight exposure. When your skin is exposed to sunlight, it synthesizes vitamin D. Just 10 to 30 minutes of sun exposure a few times a week is often enough, depending on skin type, location, and time of year. It’s important to balance sun exposure with skin protection to avoid damage.

Vitamin D can also be found in certain foods, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), egg yolks, and fortified foods like milk and cereals. For those who struggle to get enough vitamin D from these sources, supplements can be an option, but it’s best to consult a healthcare provider first.

Being near the beach and listening to the sound of the ocean provides a wealth of mental health benefits. From reducing stress and anxiety to improving mood and encouraging mindfulness, the beach offers a restorative environment for the mind and body.

Sasha is a freelance journalist and has a passion for writing, reading, good food and wine. She’s obsessed with the IDEA of healthy eating (as well as chocolate – dark of course) and is always experimenting with alternative health therapies and trying to get the family to eat less sugar. Her best reward at the end of a busy week: a good book or time to sit on the beach and stare at the sea: whichever option is available.