In our day-to-day lives, taking time for ourselves is easier said than done. We have responsibilities and to-do lists, perhaps others to care for. It can be difficult to slow down but finding ways to enjoy our own company is healthy for the mind and body. In fact, we need to have some downtime. A good place to start is by taking a walk in nature— where we may find it easier to feel grounded and at peace. Wake up early one morning and drive down to Garden City Beach. You can absolutely enjoy the beach when it’s quiet, for it is often in the moments of silence that we hear the most.
As you trek across the sand, breathe in the fresh sea air. You can listen as the waves crash onto the coastline or watch the seabirds fly overhead. Take this time to enjoy the moments like these—they are rare. And though we understand the beauty of sitting by the water, there are real benefits to spending time on the beach. The calming sounds and sunshine streaming down can instantly relieve pent-up stress. They have been proven to help still your mind and even regulate hormones. Plus, this relaxed state will help you get better sleep later on.
There are plenty of moments for exercise, too. Even walking up and down along the water allows for a perfect work-out. Walking is one of the best forms of exercise and the sand offers extra resistance. Feel free to collect shells as you go. If it is warm enough, you may even want to go for a swim. As the waves rock you, the salty water is great for your skin. It actually heals cuts and scrapes and may feel good on your joints. And throughout this whole time, you are soaking in important Vitamin D from the sun. Even 10 minutes in the sunshine offers you a whole day’s worth!
This is also the perfect time to unplug. Forget about your online world and be present in this moment. There is nothing wrong with taking a step back and spending some time with yourself. As you prioritize your mind and body in this way, you will feel more refreshed. When we feel good all over, life’s problems become easier to handle. So next time you’re feeling stressed out, head down to the beach for some natural healing and enjoy your own company.
– By Olivia Dimatteo, blog contributor for Garden City Realty
