Beach Benefits

“Summer afternoon – summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language.” Henry James

Summer is a treasured season.

Summer is a time of fun, relaxation, and simplicity. The focus is less on productivity and more on leisure and outdoor activities. We value our time with friends and family while taking a break from work.

Summer means long, warm days and comfortable nights; fresh cut flowers and vegetable gardens. Summer brings school breaks, vacations, outdoor concerts, and picnics.

We wear light and casual clothing, feel our bare feet touch soft grass, eat fresh and simple foods like corn on the cob and watermelon, and experience the beauty of nature. We enjoy lazy days at the pool, bike rides, and beach weeks.

Summer is a state of mind.

The sweet, pleasant nature of summer is part of what led my husband and me to move to a warm location with mild winters. We wanted to live near the ocean and experience its beauty more often.

For the past five years we’ve had the pleasure of living in a southeastern coastal town. Through a minimalist lifestyle and careful planning, we were able to retire early and relocate to our desired spot. I’m grateful to live in the beautiful, relaxed place we had previously experienced only during vacation.

We enjoy the beach regularly, but during the peak of summer when it’s particularly crowded we visit less often. Over the past week as the crowds have begun to lessen, we’ve spent a few hours each day on the beach. It’s been blissful, and we’re reminded of why we chose to relocate.

The beach is a natural stress reducer.

As we face life’s uncertainties, losses, and challenges, a few hours at the beach is therapeutic. It eases anxiety and worry, and helps to lift sadness and reestablish optimism.

Spending time on the beach provides calm. My husband and I take a minimalist approach to visiting since we live so close. We check the weather, wind and tide to determine our timing. We apply sunscreen before we leave the house and carry only our chairs and books, leaving our phones and fitness trackers at home.

Within a few minutes, our toes are in the sand; any tension begins to dissolve. We may arrive with worries on our minds, but by the time we head home those same troubles feel lighter.

The rhythmic sound of the ocean and sight of the waves rolling in is soothing. I can feel my breathing slow and deepen as my body relaxes. I visualize my worries, regrets, and spiraling thoughts being washed away with each wave.

The beautiful open horizon reminds me to broaden my thinking, expand my perspective, and recognize my very small part in this world. The uncluttered, seemingly endless view holds my attention and allows my thoughts to pause while I focus on the warm presence of the moment.

Soothing blue skies, patterns of clouds, and the variety of greens and blues in the water are a unique and ever changing palette of beauty. Watching sea birds search for food or scanning the water for dolphins provides me with endless entertainment.

Walking on the cool, wet sand is grounding. Keeping an eye out for treasures in the surf like sea glass, interesting shells or shark teeth, provides focus for my restless mind. Time passes pleasantly during a slow walk on the beach. The natural vitamin D, movement, and varying sights powerfully boost my mood.

The beach is life affirming.

Extended families gather to enjoy the simplicity of an afternoon together. They relax in the water or sit in the sun reading or chatting. Children laugh and play not realizing that they are creating joyful memories that will last a lifetime.

The seaside instructs me to live fully and move forward with strength and optimism, to release the past and face the future with hope and confidence. It is an ever present meeting point of land and sea that witnesses countless shifts, storms, and changes, but its beauty and life persist. It is inspiring, and I’m grateful for its lessons and comfort.

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About the Author: Jennifer Tritt enjoys writing about her minimalist lifestyle and insights about simplicity. You can find out more about her on Facebook.