REVEALED: The mental health benefits of living by the seaside
LIVING by the seaside boosts mental health, makes people happier and more relaxed, according to new research.
The mental benefits of living by the sea
In fact, the health advantages linked to a coastal home are so pronounced, scientists behind the study say more flats and affordable property should be built along Britain's shores so increased numbers of people can benefit.
American analysis of New Zealand data found residents whose properties had an ocean view were happier than their land-locked neighbours.
It is the first report to find a link between health and the visibility of water, which the scientists call 'blue space'.
The research shows how the sound of waves alters wave patterns in the brain lulling a person into a deeply relaxed state. Relaxing in this way can help rejuvenate the mind and body.
Also, floating in the nearby sea diverts blood from the lower limbs and pumps it towards the abdominal region - the part of the body near the heart - because we are no longer standing upright.
This fresh blood brings more oxygen to the brain making people more alert and active.
Professor Amber Pearson, of Michigan State University in the USA, said: "Increased views of blue space is significantly associated with lower levels of psychological distress. However, we did not find that with green space."
Professors found that the same calming effect was not found in people living in green space
Using various topography data, Prof Pearson and colleagues studied the visibility of blue and green spaces from residential locations of Wellington.
Increased views of blue space is significantly associated with lower levels of psychological distress
The urban capital city is surrounded by the Tasman Sea on the north and the Pacific Ocean on the south. Green space includes forests and grassy parks.
To gauge psychological distress, the researchers analysed data from the New Zealand Health Survey which used a measurement called the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, or K10, which has proven to be an accurate predictor of anxiety and mood disorders.
Mental health disorders are the leading cause of disability worldwide, according to the World Health Organisation.
Even after taking into account residents' wealth, age, sex and other neighbourhood factors, the study found having a view of the ocean was associated with improved mental health.
Prof Pearson said visibility of green space did not show the same calming effect, although that could be because the study did not distinguish between types.
She explained: "It could be because the blue space was all natural, while the green space included human made areas, such as sports fields and playgrounds, as well as natural areas such as native forests.
"Perhaps if we only looked at native forests we might find something different."
Like most wealthy countries, New Zealand is highly urbanised, meaning effective city planning is increasingly important.
Floating in the sea was also found to be good for the body
The study's authors say designating a proportion of high rise buildings or affordable homes in locations with ocean views could potentially promote mental health.
Studies have already shown sea air is good for a sound sleep because it is charged with healthy negative ions that accelerate the ability to absorb oxygen.
The chemicals also balance levels of seratonin, a hormone linked with mood and stress. Which is why after a holiday people feel more alert, relaxed and energised.
The heat of the sun also affects the endocrine system - the part of the body which secretes endorphins - the natural chemicals designed to make us feel relaxed and less stressed.