How the Ocean Can Actually Be Therapeutic
One thing Miami (and the surrounding areas in Florida) has plenty of is access to saltwater and the ocean. The ocean, though many may not know, has several great benefits for your physical, emotional, and mental health, not just because the clear blue waters down here are clear and aesthetically pleasing.
The ocean is a sensory experience: The sound of waves crashing on a shore and seagulls cawing in the distance. The feeling of the sand in between your toes and the feeling of the fresh ocean air running through your lungs and blowing your hair. The sight of clear blue water for miles.
The taste of the saltwater as it lingers on your skin. The smell of the sunscreen you applied to keep the sun’s harmful rays from hurting your skin. If you enjoy the sensory benefits of the ocean has to offer, you’ll be excited to know that there are more benefits to being by the ocean than these simple joys alone.
Saltwater Is Good for Your Skin
The high sodium and iodine levels in saltwater enhance the wound-healing process. So yes, it may sting when you jump into the ocean with an open wound but know that the antiviral and antibacterial properties in the saltwater are helping in your body’s healing process. This is also why salt water can be beneficial for individuals who suffer from immune diseases and skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne. Saltwater also puts ample pressure on your lymph vessels, promoting the reduction in the appearance of cellulite and tightening of the skin.
Saltwater Strengthens Your Immune System and Supports Your Thyroid
Both your red and white blood cells increase after being in saltwater. The rise of your red and white blood cells helps your body to fight infection or inflammation. So saltwater is a more natural remedy for those with weakened immune systems. Saltwater also contains iodine, which is good for a healthy thyroid.
Saltwater Swimming Can Be an Excellent Way to Do a Cardiovascular Workout
Exercising helps to reduce the levels of cortisol in your body, which are essentially the “stress hormone” you experience. Doing outdoor activities, such as swimming in the ocean, can help with the release of cortisol hormones. Your breathing is more controlled when focusing on activities such as swimming, which helps to regulate your body and reduce stress levels. Saltwater contains magnesium which helps against stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Saltwater contains a substantial amount of magnesium. Magnesium supports the regulation of the function of your muscles, nerves, and blood sugar which aids in the reduction of stress levels through reduction of cortisol and adrenaline, reduction in anxiety, and improvement in quality of sleep.
Saltwater Can Improve Overall Mood
The air from the sea, or ocean breeze, contains negative ions, which increase serotonin and dopamine (known as our “happy hormones”). As also mentioned in the first paragraph of this blog post, the ocean and being at the beach is a sensory experience that often can help to improve our mood. While being by the ocean or moving by the ocean doesn’t necessarily solve all of our problems, it can be helpful as a tool for self-care.
Begin Working With A Miami Therapist Today
Summer is a great time to enjoy the benefits that the ocean has to offer. Our compassionate team is here to support you and your mental health journey during the summer and every season. To begin your journey toward growth and healing with Miami Vibes Counseling, follow these three simple steps:
Reach out to get matched with a Miami therapist
Get to know our team of caring therapists
Start receiving the support you deserve!
Other Mental Health Services We Offer in Miami, FL
Our team is happy to offer a variety of mental health services. We offer support for children, adults, parents, and families. Our services include therapy for grief, life transitions, spirituality, trauma, and PTSD. Some of the techniques we use include ACT, CBT, and TF-CBT. All of these services are available both in person and through virtual therapy.
