Swimming Stimulates Brain Chemicals & Neurotransmitters

Living in Riverside County, Southern California, you're just an hour's drive from some of the world's most beautiful beaches. Yet, many locals rarely take advantage of this proximity. Regularly immersing yourself in seawater—ideally for several hours once a month—offers numerous health benefits, a practice known as thalassotherapy. This age-old therapy utilizes the ocean's natural elements to promote physical and mental well-being.

🌊 Health Benefits of Monthly Ocean Immersion

🧴 Skin Health & Inflammation Relief

Mineral-Rich Composition: Seawater contains magnesium, calcium, sodium, and potassium, which can reduce inflammation, hydrate the skin, and aid in the removal of dead skin cells. Gralon
Psoriasis Management: Regular exposure to seawater may alleviate symptoms of psoriasis by reducing redness and promoting skin hydration. Sea Magik Aquamarina

🌬️ Respiratory Benefits

Improved Breathing: Inhaling sea air, rich in iodine and magnesium, can help clear nasal passages and lungs, potentially reducing symptoms of asthma, sinusitis, and hay fever. ConvenientMD

🧠 Mental Health & Cognitive Function

Mood Enhancement: Swimming releases endorphins and serotonin, natural chemicals that improve mood and reduce stress.
Neurogenesis: Regular swimming promotes the growth of new brain cells in the hippocampus, enhancing memory and cognitive functions. Vogue

🏃‍♂️ Physical Fitness & Joint Health

Low-Impact Exercise: Swimming provides a full-body workout that's gentle on the joints, making it ideal for individuals with arthritis or joint pain.
Muscle Strengthening: The resistance of water helps in building and toning muscles without the strain associated with traditional exercises.

🏖️ Tips for Maximizing Ocean Therapy Benefits

Consistency: Aim for at least one extended ocean swim per month to maintain the therapeutic effects.
Sun Protection: While moderate sun exposure can benefit skin conditions, always use sunscreen to protect against harmful UV rays.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water before and after swimming to stay hydrated.
Post-Swim Care: Rinse off after swimming to remove salt residues and apply a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.

Embrace the natural healing properties of the ocean. Regular seawater immersion can be a rejuvenating practice for both body and mind.

I you can't make it to the beach, you can make saline solution at home with distilled water, iodine-free salt, and baking soda. Follow the instructions here.

Hydrotherapy (water therapy) and swimming have also been shown to decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety. One study showed the effects comparable to a commonly used anti-depressant drug called paroxetine.

Happy summer!