The therapeutic power of the beach and sea on men’s mental health
By Luke Newman, founder and director of ‘For Men To Talk’
Recently I suffered from burnout. I was emotional and feeling physically and mentally exhausted resulting from overwhelming demands of my two jobs.
Recognising the signs of burnout and taking proactive steps to address and prevent it are essential for maintaining overall well-being and performance in various aspects of life. I was very fortunate that a long weekend trip to Newquay would help me. By how did it?
The beach and sea have an inexplicable allure that draws countless individuals seeking solace, relaxation and rejuvenation. For centuries, people have found comfort and peace in the tranquil rhythm of the waves and the vastness of the open sea. Beyond the obvious physical pleasures of sunbathing and swimming, there exists a deeper connection between the beach and men’s mental health.
Nature’s Calming Influence:
Nature, in its simplest form, has a profound effect on human psychology. The beach and sea provide an idyllic natural setting that can have an immediate soothing effect on the mind. The gentle sound of waves crashing against the shore creates a rhythmic, meditative experience, inducing a sense of calm and relaxation. This soothing environment helps men alleviate stress, anxiety, and depressive thoughts, promoting mental clarity and inner peace.
Sunlight and Vitamin D:
Exposure to sunlight triggers the production of Vitamin D in our bodies, which plays a crucial role in maintaining mental health. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to mood disorders, including depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Spending time at the beach allows men to soak up the sun’s rays, elevating their mood and reducing the risk of mental health issues associated with low Vitamin D levels.
Mindful Presence:
The beach encourages mindfulness and being present in the moment. When men engage in activities like walking on the sandy shore or observing the vastness of the sea, they become more mindful of their surroundings. This present-focused mindset can help alleviate racing thoughts and worries about the past or future, promoting a sense of grounding and mental clarity.
Physical Activity and Endorphin Release:
Engaging in beach-related activities such as swimming, beach volleyball, or even beach yoga offers more than just physical exercise. Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, commonly known as “feel-good” hormones. These endorphins act as natural mood boosters, reducing stress and promoting a positive outlook on life.
In Newquay, I particularly enjoyed bodyboarding. The thrill of catching a wave, feeling it lift me and gliding me along the water’s surface was exhilarating fun.
Stress Reduction:
Men, particularly those in high-stress professions or dealing with daily pressures, can greatly benefit from the beach’s stress-reducing qualities. The peaceful ambiance of the beach, coupled with the sensory experience of sand, sea and breeze, creates a holistic environment that promotes relaxation, reduces cortisol levels and fosters mental well-being.
Conclusion:
From the calming influence of nature and mindful presence to the joy of physical activity and the release of endorphins, the beach offers a multifaceted approach to supporting men’s mental well-being.
Furthermore, the spiritual connection with nature and the serenity of the open sea offer unique healing elements that complement traditional mental health practices.
The therapeutic benefits of the beach and sea on men’s mental health are undeniable. I felt so more relaxed after my long weekend in Newquay. However, I must look at other ways to prevent burnout and recognise how to relax, as visiting the beach is not something I can do regularly, which is a shame!
