The Beach as Medicine

A much needed, long awaited road trip to a favorite beach is on the horizon. I’m looking forward to the drive out, time with family and friends, and long walks to hidden coves for some quiet time.

It’s hard to disagree with Plato, who is quoted as saying “The sea cures all ailments.”  The beach is the perfect setting to enhance our overall well-being.

Here’s how the combination of sun, sea and sand can act as natural medicine that nourishes our body, mind and spirit:

Body

• Days can be spent moving our bodies on the beach and in the ocean interspersed with permission to relax and do nothing.

• Natural substances for our bodies abound, such as Vitamin D production stimulated by the sun, magnesium from sea water as a de-stressor, the antibacterial, detoxifying properties of salt, and the negative ions in the sea air to help us absorb more oxygen.

• Natural elements, such as the blue-hued landscape, the sound of water and the warmth of the sand combine to activate our parasympathetic nervous system to help us relax and release feel-good endorphins.

Mind

• A relaxed body paves the way for a reduction in anxiety and stress and an increase of mental ease.

• There’s an opportunity to deepen this emotional tranquility by unplugging and using techniques like mindfulness to be present.

• This calm, positive mental state has science to back it up.  Marine biologist and author, Dr. Wallace J. Nichols, calls this psychological state of less brain activity that’s instilled by close proximity to the water in nature “blue mind” in his book by the same title.

Spirit

• A relaxed body and calm mind is perfect for inviting insight and reflection.

• The choice to expand the experience of true downtime without manufactured stimuli is easier in a beach environment.

• The space made from a cognitive time-out is the perfect breeding ground for creativity and connection.

I find the best way to quickly settle into the beach landscape is with mindful awareness.  Instead of directing my attention through focused meditation, mindful awareness is about deepening presence by welcoming our full experience, moment by moment, observing how the mind, body and spirit feel.

Here’s my favorite way to practice mindful awareness – give it a try the next time you’re beachside:

• Fill a travel mug with your favorite morning beverage and begin your walk at sunrise to enjoy the empty beach.

• You may choose to walk alone or with your significant other or a good friend.  If you’re with someone, you may agree to walk in silence or have some alone time at some point in the walk.

• As you walk, notice what you’re finding most pleasing.  Perhaps the colors in the sky, the sound of the ocean or the feeling of the sand on your feet as you walk.  Whatever you choose, just enjoy that feeling for a while.

• When it feels right, broaden your awareness to your five senses.  Just notice how your senses are engaged.  Here are some examples of what you can bring into your experience as you stroll:

Sight:  the endless horizon, wildlife, clouds, footprints and patterns in the sand, sunlight reflected on the water, boats and surfers, shells, sea and plant life;

Sound:  waves crashing, wind blowing, water receding over the pebbles and shells, seagulls;

Smell:  sea air, marine life on beach, seaweed, tidal pools;

Touch:  the beach spray, ocean breeze, sun, sand, water lapping at your feet, wet sand, breath rhythm, body relaxing, texture of pebbles or shells; and

Taste:  salt on lips, morning coffee.

• Find a spot to sit facing the ocean.  Feel each of the natural elements, such as the earth supporting you, the water relaxing you, the fire of the sun warming you, and the air enfolding you.

• Broaden your awareness by feeling what’s around you.  While sitting still, use your senses to perceive what is farthest from you on the horizon.  What’s closest?  What’s behind you?  Below you?  What’s directly above you?  On either side?

• In this expanded, relaxed state, invite your mind to wander for a bit.  You may find yourself gently processing the past, dreaming of the future or discovering an insight.

• Before you bring your beach walk to a close, feel yourself connected to the energy of the landscape. Feel the sun and the ocean radiating in your cells.

As you leave the beach, remember that you can always tap into this aliveness.  Even when you return home, know that the ocean tides are continually flowing, the sun is still rising and setting, and the earth is always renewing and revitalizing.

Journal Reflections:  How is the beach (or your favorite place in nature) medicine for you?  What makes you feel present and connected when you’re there?  How might you access that energy when you’re back in your daily routine?