Exploring Eight Benefits of Coastal Living
It’s no secret that those who live on the coast generally enjoy where they live. Whether it’s the sand under the toes, the ample sun, or the moderate climate created by the ocean, coastal living is often a good deal. However, did you know there are more than just these surface-level benefits to coastal living? In fact, there are many tried and true health benefits to living closer to water. So, pack your beach gear and come along as we dive into eight benefits of coastal living.
1. Cleaner Air
Coastal areas generally have better air quality than inland areas due to a few factors. First, salt molecules attract water molecules, which form around fine pollution particles, making them less harmful. Second, sea winds bring in less polluted air from the ocean, which dissipates the contaminated air from inland areas. So, if you are concerned about air pollutants and want to breathe fresher air, living by the coast might be best for you.
2. Improved Sleep
The cleaner air from the ocean can also improve your sleep due to its higher oxygen levels. Additionally, if you live close enough to the water to hear the rolling waves, this will also improve your sleep. The natural pattern of the waves has been shown to lull the body to sleep and has the effect of white noise, which helps the body enter a relaxed state. Living near the coast may be the answer to your problems if you struggle to fall asleep or maintain quality sleep.
3. Vitamin D Exposure
Coastal living typically means more exposure to sunlight, which, if dosed correctly, can provide a healthy amount of vitamin D. Vitamin D is one of the most important vitamins in your body, supporting healthier bones, teeth, and overall mood. This essential vitamin also lowers your chances of inflammation and decreases hypertension. So, if you want to avoid taking vitamin D supplements for the rest of your life and instead get it naturally, moving to the coast might be your best bet.
4. Physical Activity
The physical activities found near the beach are bountiful, and people generally like spending more time outdoors when near the ocean. Whether swimming, snorkeling, playing beach volleyball, or surfing, the beach promotes an active lifestyle. So, snap on those flippers and head for the water—your body will thank you for it!
Related: Living a Life of Active Leisure After Retirement
5. Improved Social Life
The beach is a wonderful place to build social connections. Whether participating in a beach walking club, watching a community volleyball tournament, or lounging with friends, there are always ways to connect with people on the sand. Life near the water is typically more laid back, meaning people can be more open to new social connections. If a strong community is what you are looking for, then living by the coast may have what you need.
Learn More: The Importance of Social Connection: Building Community in Retirement Living
6. Reduced Stress
Living near the coast has been proven to lower blood pressure and, ultimately, reduce anxiety, stress, and depression. The ocean acts as a regulator, calming the nervous system and relaxing the body. While living near the coast won’t likely address all of your mental health struggles, it is certainly a move in the right direction toward a healthier and more well-balanced life.
7. Fresh Food
If you’re chasing fresher food, the coast might be the best place for you—especially if you love seafood! Most coastal regions have their own seafood specialties, whether New England clam chowder in Boston or shrimp and grits in the Lowcountry; there are delicious culinary options up and down the coast. Fresh seafood is also a great source of Omega-3s, which help to promote healthy heart and brain function.
8. Healthier Skin
Ocean water is very soothing and offers phenomenal health benefits for your skin. Saltwater contains minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which have antibacterial properties that cleanse your skin. It also has an exfoliating effect, which helps remove dead skin cells from the surface, creating a smoother look overall. For those with skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, deep sea water may help to alleviate symptoms.
Find Your Coastal Home at Seafields
At Seafields, our residents’ lives are connected to nature. With miles of coastline and endless riverways, you are never far from the water on Kiawah Island. If you desire retirement by the sea, contact us below to learn more about our available residences.
