When you think of sun and sea, you think of Greece.

Greece, paradise, is the magic of the endless blue. But how does the sea benefit our minds?

It is no coincidence that blue is one of the top colours that interior decorators and designers use. The colour of the deep sea has the ability to calm the human spirit and offers a sense of security.

The sound of the sea is easy for the brain to process and creates a soft focus. In particular, the white noise of the waves crashing relaxes our brain and stimulates the production of body’s feel-good chemicals including serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins. They promote positive feelings like pleasure, happiness, and even love.

• Reconnection with the Earth:

The sensory experience of the sand between your toes connects you with the Earth. Also, besides the natural exfoliation your feet get from the sand, walking on the beach provides considerably more exercise than walking on a flatter surface. This is because your body is constantly counter-balancing the uneven surface of the sand, effectively working your calves, thighs, and gluteal muscles, without you even realising it.

Vitamin D, also known as “the vitamin of the sun”, improves positive psychological well-being and can also help to regulate moods. Studies have shown that low levels of vitamin D were linked to higher levels of depression and anxiety.

Water is one of the most important symbols of humanity and is associated with the unconscious. Being in a relaxed, meditative state is linked to lower stress levels, improved mental clarity, relief from mild anxiety, and improved mood. So if you’re having a hard time relaxing your mind get yourself in or around water.

• Physical health benefits:

Swimming in the sea gives you a full body workout, improves circulation, and increases your immune system function. Studies have shown that the vitamins, minerals, and amino acids in seawater produce antibiotic and antibacterial effects that promote immunity. Furthermore, swimming in warm seawater activates the body’s healing mechanisms to fight conditions such as asthma, arthritis, bronchitis and inflammatory diseases, as well as common aches and pains.