Living by the sea: why the coast is good for body and mind
When, at the end of a perfect day, you look out over the shimmering Mediterranean Sea and watch the sun set with a glass of wine or a fresh cocktail, it feels like you have made the best decision of your life: living by the sea. However, that wonderful feeling is not just because of the “sundowner” in your hand – it has been scientifically proven that living by the coast has a positive impact on your health and well-being.
Historical insights: the sea as a healing place
Since the 18th century, doctors have prescribed a stay by the sea for all sorts of ailments. Think tuberculosis, skin disorders or chronic fatigue. It was believed that the mineral-rich sea water, combined with the fresh sea air and soothing sound of waves, had a healing effect. Although many of those ancient medical claims are outdated, modern scientific research in recent decades has confirmed that spending time in nature – and especially near water – significantly improves our well-being.
From “green spaces” to “blue spaces”
Back in the 1980s there was a groundbreaking study in which patients with views of nature recovered faster than patients who only looked at a blind wall. Since then, scientists have studied extensively why humans are so attracted to natural environments. At first the focus was mainly on forests and parks (green spaces), but in recent years interest has been growing in the impact of coastal areas, lakes and rivers – so-called “blue spaces.”
British environmental psychologist Mat White showed back in 2010 that people find natural environments with water more attractive and calming than other landscapes. His studies laid the foundation for the concept of “blue health,” or the health benefits of spending time near water.
Why the sea relaxes us mentally
According to the so-called Attention Restoration Theory, “gently fascinating” landscapes help restore our brain. These are environments that hold our attention in a quiet way, without overstimulating us. The waves of the sea are the perfect example of this: they are constantly moving, drawing our gaze, but allowing our minds to relax at the same time.
Author Dr. Catherine Kelly (“Blue Spaces: How and Why Water Can Make You Feel Better”) emphasizes that looking at the horizon and listening to the surf automatically makes us put things into perspective. Problems seem smaller, we feel part of a bigger picture and experience a sense of wonder (“awe”). This state of wonder reduces stress, enhances our sense of happiness and even encourages social and caring behavior.
Physical benefits: more exercise and better sleep
Not only our brains, but also our bodies benefit from living by the coast. The beach automatically invites exercise: walking, swimming, running along the tide line or water sports such as paddleboarding and kite surfing. Research shows that people in blue spaces are, on average, physically active longer than in parks or forests.
A 2024 international study of nearly 19,000 adults showed that regularly spending time in green AND blue spaces significantly reduces the risk of sleep problems. Those who frequent the sea sleep deeper and recover better. And while science has yet to prove a direct link between coastal landscapes and pain reduction, many people report that their symptoms (such as back or headaches) decrease when they spend time by the water.
The Costa del Sol: a natural wellness destination
For those who live in southern Spain or stay there regularly, these benefits are everyday fare. The Costa del Sol offers more than 300 days of sunshine a year, long stretches of coast where you can walk endlessly, and a vibrant outdoor culture that invites a healthier life. It is therefore no coincidence that more and more international buyers are opting for an apartment or villa with a sea view: the quality of life demonstrably improves.
So living by the sea is more than a luxury or a beautiful dream – it is an investment in your health and well-being. Whether you’re jogging along the surf in the morning, taking a dip in the afternoon or watching the sun go down in the evening, living by the coast helps keep your body and mind in balance.
So the next time you see the sun sink into the Mediterranean, you know: this is not just enjoyment. This is pure quality of life.
If you also want to discover what it is like to live by the sea on the Costa del Sol, contact us and let us guide you to your ideal property on the coast.
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