We all love the beach. It's fun, it's relaxing and it's even good for our health. There's no doubt about it, spending time at the beach is one of the best prescriptions available when it comes to preventing certain illnesses and helping cure others. Below we shall highlight some of the benefits of the sea, the sand, the sun and the combination of all three elements. We're so lucky to live by the Mediterranean, don't you think?

The sun is a source of vitamin D

While it's important to remember that we must expose ourselves to the sun in moderation, it's equally important to know that the sun is responsible to a great extent for the fact that our bodies produce vitamin D. For this reason vitamin D is known as 'the sun vitamin', as it is a source of elements that are essential for healthy bones.

The colour of the sea relaxes us

Simply gazing at the sea generates an unmistakeable feeling of wellbeing. Its colour is associated with tranquillity as well as other positive emotions such as sincerity and safety. 

The sea breeze brings wellbeing

Salt water has a high concentration of iodine, an important element in the regulation of thyroid glands. Naturally this positive effect occurs when we come in direct contact with sea water while bathing, but it also occurs when we breathe in the sea air. In addition, sea breezes bring humidity and help cleanse the respiratory system. 

A walk on the sand is good for our joints

Aside from the pleasurable sensation of walking on the sand this simple exercise helps tone our muscles, bones and joints. It also aids blood circulation in the legs, thereby contributing to a healthy heart. 

In addition to all this the beach is a source of natural medicine for many skin diseases, and salt water and sea breezes can improve some conditions that are notoriously difficult to treat, such as acne, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.

So now you know, a trip to the beach is one of the healthiest leisure activities the summer has to offer and, in the case of the Costa del Sol, this is a luxury one can benefit from all year round.