
It’s no coincidence that people like to spend their holidays by the sea. Now, research suggests that living by the ocean, or even visiting the coast, may foster better health, whether in Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, or elsewhere.
As well as setting the scene for many a vacation, the sea has long been essential to the lives of many populations, from far-flung islanders to seafaring warriors.
While Mediterranean seaside resorts are perceived as ideal refuges for longevity and good health, in reality, any destination close to the coast can be a good place to enjoy the benefits of the sea.
This is the conclusion of a study conducted by a team of researchers from Europe and the United Kingdom. Published in the journal “Communication Earth & Environment”, this study surveyed over 15,000 people, from the UK to Australia, via Belgium, Bulgaria, Ireland, Italy, Spain and France.
In the UK, for example, people who lived than 5km from the coast reported a better general state of health than in years when they lived further away.
According to this data, across all destinations, you need to live less than 1-2km away from the sea to optimise the potential for good health.
Such a conclusion raises questions at a time when coastal erosion is one of the major problems of climate change. A 2019 study indicated that if sea levels were to rise by 1m by 2100, 190 million people would be displaced.
The benefits of sea air
While the benefits of seawater on the body are well known, its effects are not limited to the virtues of iodine or sea salts. Living closer to the coast or visiting the seaside means more physical activity, thanks to long walks by the sea, for example.
Whether it’s a restaurant, a hotel room, or a seafront garden, vacationers are often happy to pay a premium to enjoy these benefits. And they’re right to do so, since this study highlights a reduction in psychological distress.
There are many benefits, not to mention social interaction, “which can help reduce the allostatic load” – that is, the effects of stress accumulated over time. And that’s something to bear in mind if you haven’t yet booked your next vacation!
Stay current - Follow FMT on WhatsApp, Google news and Telegram