Beach swimming is a fantastic boost to physical and mental health
There’s nothing better than a day out at the beach, and we are so lucky as Australians to be surrounded by beautiful pristine oceans. The joy of swimming in the sea has been chronicled across cultures throughout human history; in the modern age, science can attest to its physical, mental and emotional benefits.
Swimming at the beach is fantastic for your physical health and wellbeing. Ocean water has high levels of minerals such as iodine, chloride, magnesium, sodium and sulphate. These minerals are highly beneficial to the skin, and in treating skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. The magnesium in seawater has been proven to have a positive effect on the treatment of acne, and in keeping skin smooth and healthy. Ocean water also has antiseptic properties, and can therefore aid in the healing of small cuts and sores. The minerals present in the water are beneficial to general physical health, and are readily absorbed through the skin.
Ocean swimming also helps to lesson symptoms of hay fever and sinusitis; the salinity of the water reduces inflammation and clears out the nasal passages.
Water temperatures at the beach is often a few degrees cooler than would be expected at a swimming pool, and this cooler temperature has surprising benefits. Cold water swimming has a positive effect on mental illness, chronic pain, blood pressure and the immune system.
Recent studies have shown that exercising in natural environments is better for improving mental health than exercise performed in artificial environments. The beauty and tranquillity of the beach, with its stunning natural scenery, is awe-inspiring. It helps to relieve us from the stresses of our daily routines that often take place in artificial environments, like busy offices. The weightlessness of water has the effect of calming the body, and studies have shown this can even slow down brain waves. This is fantastic way to manage high levels of stress.
The ocean is gigantic, and full of possibilities. In a swimming pool, you are able to enjoy swimming as an activity in itself, but in the ocean swimming can be a tool that opens up a brand new world of adventure. Scuba diving and snorkelling are fantastic ways of exploring underwater worlds, and interacting with fascinating plants and animals. Many of our beaches are frequented by schools of bottlenose dolphins and green sea turtles, which we may be lucky enough to encounter when taking a dip. Here in Australia, we are also fortunate to be flanked by tropical reefs. Halfway up the coast of Western Australia, there’s a reef that can be accessed straight off the beach. Ningaloo Reef is home to rare coral species, thousands of tropical fish species, manta rays, and the rare and majestic whale shark. Becoming a confident ocean swimmer can instil you with the confidence to explore these hidden treasures of the natural world.
The beach is also a wonderful social environment, where you can make lifelong memories with family and friends. It’s beautiful, free to access, and can be enjoyed by the old and the young. Non-swimmers and swimmers alike can get together at the beach, and enjoy the weather, the scenery, and each other’s company. With spring just around the corner, now is the perfect time to air out the wetsuit, shake out the beach towels, and get excited for the salty ocean breeze!
Written by: Tess Purling
