The Healing Properties of the Beach

There’s something about the beach that draws countless individuals to its sandy shores. The air is crisp, the sun is warm, birds circle overhead. It’s a relaxing place and can actually improve your mood. A local beach in Los Osos, California, is a popular spot for sun-bathers, deep-thinkers, kids and hikers alike. Click on the first picture below to begin a slideshow displaying various perspectives on the power of the beach.

The beach at Montana de Oro State Park is constantly abuzz with people trying to get some down time or exercise. The beach is a place people flock to get away from reality and heal the mind and body.

Cal Poly students Alla Lyubinskaya and Andrea Disbrow use the beach as a form of escape from reality. “I come here to not think,” Lyubinskaya said. She values the change of scenery and likes to walk around and pick up stones by the seaside.

The tiny grains of sand are actually good for you, said Lyubinskaya. “I hate walking on the sand, but it strengthens your leg muscles.” She also emphasized how sea water can help clear congested sinuses.

Carrie Ritz leaves her Wisconsin home for the month of January every year to spend time at the beach. “The sound is peaceful for me,” she said. “If I’m ever in a zen mood, it’s over here.”

“It makes you realize how small you are,” Ritz said over the roar of the waves. “The ocean is so powerful, it puts things into perspective.” She likes the beach because it makes her heart beats a little slower

Parent Sarah Ono frequents the beach to de-stress from home life. “We have 3 kids,” she said. “[The beach] is like free medication.”

A jogger keeps a steady pace, breathing heavily as he pushes himself to keep running despite the wind and heat.

Lyubinskaya likes to trek around Montano de Oro with Disbrow. Together, they hike the trails, appreciate the salty air and sun and explore the hidden nooks and crannies of the park.

Two bikers take a breather, stepping off their bikes to admire the cliff-side view.

Ono, Lyubinskaya and Ritz all highlighted the calming attributes of the ocean and its health benefits. “People need the sun, fresh air, and vitamin D for mental health,” Ono said.