By: Sarah Farmer Blevins
If you’re thinking about going on a relaxing getaway, the ocean is probably one of the first things that comes to mind. You’re imagining dipping your toes into the cool blue waters, looking out onto the endless horizon, and breathing in that salty air. You picture yourself stretched out onto the sand, soaking up the warmth of the sun’s rays, as you listen to the waves crashing. There’s something magical about it that draws us in. As humans, we tend to naturally gravitate towards the ocean, and I want to dig into some of the many reasons why.
Whenever you’re having trouble going to sleep, or struggling to focus on something, chances are, you’re searching for a playlist to help you with that. I’m willing to bet that most people put it on ocean sounds. There’s actually a scientific reason for it. Just listening to the sounds of the waves crashing and receding will activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which slows down your brain and helps you to relax. The sounds of the ocean are naturally soothing, and can help reduce anxiety and stress. It gives your brain a much needed break, as hearing water is a lot easier to process than the noises of everyday life. To be completely honest, I’m listening to ocean sounds right now as I’m writing this. It really helps to drown out all the background noise, and be in the present moment. If listening to a playlist can be this therapeutic, just imagine the benefits you’ll reap by hearing those waves in real life.
Just like listening to the ocean, staring out into the vast expanse of blue water is naturally calming to the brain. Looking at the ocean can activate the part of your brain that releases dopamine, which gives you that happy feeling. I recall countless smiling faces anytime I’ve visited the beach. It’s certainly a good feeling, gazing out at that magnificent blue water, without a care in the world. Such an awe-inspiring sight to behold. The color blue is associated with tranquility, and can help to stimulate clear thought. It can help to reduce anxiety and high blood pressure. In fact, it’s known as the most relaxing color in the world. It’s no wonder why we’re so drawn to the ocean when we want to go somewhere to unwind, and experience pure joy.
The ocean is very captivating, and has been an inspiration for artists, musicians, photographers, and writers alike. It’s just so pleasing to look at, and brings a sense of peace. One of the first paintings I’ve ever done was of the ocean, using acrylics. It’s such a simple subject, but it certainly makes for a beautiful painting, drawing, or mosaic. People have written amazing songs and stories about the ocean, and it’s been the star of many stunning photographs. Something about the ocean invokes a sense of wonder, and will always be fascinating to us. I think it’s pretty clear why.
As invigorating as the ocean is to our senses, it’s also the heart of our planet. Covering over 70% of the Earth’s surface, the ocean helps regulate our climate, provides food for us to eat, air for us to breathe, and houses an abundance of aquatic life. It’s unknown how many sea creatures have yet to be discovered, but one important creature is phytoplankton, which are tiny, plant-like organisms that live in the sea, and are responsible for at least 50% of the oxygen on Earth. Our reliance on the ocean for survival is undeniable, and it comes as no surprise that we feel such a strong connection to it.
The ocean is a very soothing, awe-inspiring place, and plays a huge role in our existence, so the allure of it is very easy to comprehend, and it’s only natural to feel a strong desire to be near it.