Living onVancouver Island, it’s easy to take the ocean for granted. With over 3,400 kms of coastline, most of us see it every day and don’t think twice. But besides being amazingly beautiful, did you know that there are a handful of health related benefits associated with living by the ocean? It’s true.
While people have thought for years that one’s proximity to the sea was beneficial for their health, recent research has gone out of their way to back that theory up. According to a study conducted by the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry at the University of Exeter, those who live close to the coast are generally healthier than those who live inland. Let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits associated with living by the ocean.
Relaxation
That heightened sense of relaxation you associate with the ocean isn’t just a funny feeling – it’s a proven fact. Dr. Wallace J. Nichols, a marine biologist, believes that the ocean can encourage all kinds of mental relief: “We are beginning to learn that our brains are hardwired to react positively to water,” says Nichols, “and that being near it can calm and connect us, increase innovation and insight, and even heal what’s broken.”
If you’re already living on Vancouver Island, you’re probably aware of this sense of calm. Nichols goes on to say that being around water gives our senses a break from over stimulation. Considering the laid back, west coast life style people from Nanaimo are known for, this comes at no surprise.
Promotes Active Lifestyle
According to the Exeter study, living near the ocean will encourage an active lifestyle, as the surrounding setting facilitates all sorts of physicality. From swimming to surfing, hiking to volleyball, there is so much you can do near the shore.
Sea Air
Breathing in fresh sea air is great for your respiratory system and will help alleviate asthma, bronchitis and sinus pressure. Due to the large amount of salt, iodine, magnesium and trace elements in the air, being by the ocean will loosen the mucus in the respiratory tracts, which will help clear your airways.
Vitamin D
We keep coming back to this, but as one of Canada’s mildest cities, you’re sure to get a lot of sun when living in Nanaimo. Being by the ocean, you’ll get a good dose of vitamin D, as it will be reflected off the water’s surface. Experts agree that vitamin D can help improve autoimmune protection, increase endorphins, lower the risk of cancer, and enhance bone health. There is also a relationship between low levels of vitamin D and depression, which may mean that being by the ocean will make you happier.
Swimming
We highly recommend that if you purchase real estate in the Nanaimo area you get used to the idea of swimming. Besides being a fantastic form of exercise, the water’s buoyancy is great for mental and physical relief. Also, thanks to the high magnesium content, swimming has been shown to help induce sleep.
Better Sleep
On that note, being by the ocean has been linked to better sleep and the alleviation of insomnia. Because of its soothing, repetitive nature, the white noise provides us with a kind of lullaby.
Some of these benefits may seem far fetched, but the evidence is there. If you’re looking to relocate or find something closer to the water, contact us at Pemberton Holmes.
