A day at the beach is more than a vacation from the ordinary. Time at the beach can reduce stress and encourage you to be more active. It’s like a visit to Mother Nature’s very own day spa. So go ahead—plan that beach outing with no guilt. It’s just what the doctor ordered!

The blue ocean can drive the blues away.

You know that sense of relaxation you get when you’re at the beach? There’s actually a scientific term for that feeling of calm: “blue space” refers to the effects that the soothing sounds, sights, and smells of the water and ocean air have on your brain.

Mother’s Nature’s guided meditation

Clear your mind as you get in the groove with the ebb and flow of the tide. Just sit cross-legged (or any other pose that’s comfortable) on your beach blanket, close your eyes, and simply breathe. Inhale deeply as you hear the tide roll in, and exhale as it retreats.

Walk on the sand to sculpt your legs.

Surprise! You don’t even have to go into the water to get a workout. Walking on sand involves more muscles than walking on pavement. Take off your shoes for an even better workout. Of course, you may be running for a bit in between waves. The sand also exfoliates rough patches on your heels!

A saltwater facial

The salt and iodine in ocean water pull toxins out of your pores to help prevent blemishes, patchy skin, and excess oil!

Swimming: the antidote to gravity

Saltwater is more buoyant than water in a pool or a lake, so it provides more of a non-weight-bearing environment. Swimming relieves the body of gravity’s constraints, reducing stress on the joints.

So if you need a little time away from it all, the beach is the perfect prescription for a better frame of mind and a healthier outlook!

Lisa G (Elle G) is a San Diego beach photographer based in Pacific Beach, CA. Proudly serving San Diego’s coastal communities: La Jolla, Del Mar, Encinitas, Mission Beach, Mission Bay, Sunset Cliffs, Ocean Beach, Point Loma and Coronado. 858-344-1068. To chat about booking your own portrait session, click HERE.