Have you ever felt calmer, happier, or more at peace when you're at the beach? It's no coincidence. A recent study has confirmed what many people already suspected: living near the ocean has real benefits for mental health. According to the research, people who live less than a kilometer from the sea report significantly lower stress levels and better mental health compared to those who live more than 50 kilometers away.

This finding is based on a population study conducted in multiple coastal cities, where levels of anxiety, depression, chronic stress, and overall well-being were analyzed. The conclusions were compelling: the sound of the sea, the blue color of the water, the sea breeze, and the opportunity to connect with nature act as natural calming agents for the brain.

Why does the sea have such a powerful effect?

1. Natural white noise : The sound of the waves breaks the chaotic pattern of urban noise and generates a kind of "mental pause" that helps to calm the mind.
2. Contact with nature : Being in natural environments is associated with a greater release of serotonin and oxytocin, neurotransmitters that promote happiness and well-being.
3. Exercise and fresh air : Living near the sea encourages outdoor physical activity, such as walking, swimming or simply being active, which also has a positive impact on mental health.
4. Natural light : Coastal areas tend to have greater exposure to sunlight, which improves vitamin D production and regulates sleep cycles.

What if I don't live near the sea?

While moving to the coast isn't an option for everyone, it is possible to incorporate elements that simulate the therapeutic effect of the sea:

• Listen to the sounds of waves or nature while you work or rest.
• Incorporate blue or green colors into your decor.
• Take regular trips to natural areas, even if they are just lakes or rivers.
• Practice mindfulness with visualizations that include coastal landscapes.

This study not only reaffirms the healing power of the sea, but also invites us to reflect on how the environment we live in profoundly impacts our emotional well-being. And you, when was the last time you listened to the waves?