Whether we’re walking the shoreline, swimming in the ocean, or simply sitting in the sand, the beach is an iconic symbol of relaxation and peace. And it’s not just in our heads — science is showing us that time at the beach does, in fact, improve our health in a variety of surprising ways.
What is a beach?
A beach is the loose bits and fragments along the coast of bodies of water, including lakes, rivers, and the world’s ocean. The majority of beaches are made up of sand but they can also contain clay, silt, pebbles, cobbles, and even boulders. Generally, beaches form when rock is weathered down into smaller and smaller pieces over time by wind or water. The larger pieces eventually wash away or are carried out to sea by waves and currents. The result is a sandbar or peninsula that protrudes from the water or a crescent-shaped deposit of sand at low tide.
For example, the beach at Brighton in England is famous for its picturesque landscapes and became a center for upper-class pleasure and frivolity in the 18th century. Aristocratic visitors enjoyed horseback riding on the sand, and bathing in the sea was popular. In the 19th century commercial sea bathing became widespread, and a vacation in a seaside resort could easily be combined with a trip to a museum or theater.
The beach is an intriguing place to observe the process of natural erosion. Waves pound the coastline, but the size of their impact depends on the nature and strength of the sediments that lie immediately offshore. For example, coarse sand beaches tend to have less backwash, so the waves move sand landward and pile it up in relatively steep slopes. Fine-grained beach materials such as clay and silt, on the other hand, tend to be suspended in the waves and moved seaward by eddy currents, or into the marshes and sounds behind barrier islands. Mud may build up in these places as well, but mud is generally found only in the most protected parts of a beach.
In addition to their visual appeal, beaches are home to a wide array of marine life. From hermit crabs scurrying across the sand to colorful fish swimming in the waves, there’s always something interesting to see at the beach. And don’t forget the salty ocean air — it’s been shown to reduce stress and boost moods.
Next time you’re at the beach, try turning off your phone and focusing on your senses. Soak up some sunshine, smell the fresh ocean air, and listen to the sounds of the crashing waves. Just a few minutes of time at the beach can help reduce cortisol levels, relieve depression, and make you feel more relaxed. Try to make it a habit of visiting the beach on a regular basis so you can reap these mental and physical benefits all year round.