​Can spending time at the beach improve your health?

There is something magical about being at the beach. Spending time in the sand and surf can be a tonic. Feeling the warm sun on your skin, listening to the breaking waves and singing seagulls, the worries of daily life almost seem to wash away...

While a day at the beach WON'T solve all your problems, it might give a very real boost to your mood, and maybe even your health. The idea that spending time in nautical nature is healing is an old one -- as early as the 1700's, doctors were prescribing trips to the shore or seawater baths to treat physical and mental conditions. Today, it is considered "traditional wisdom" that time in the ocean can heal and soothe.

Well, now there is research being done that is putting this "traditional wisdom" to the test. Scientists in England evaluated the health of people living close to the shore, and those living inland, to see if there were any significant differences in the two groups. Interestingly, their findings suggested that the coastal group tended to be healthier! Of course, there are many factors that could be influencing these findings, and they aren't by any means conclusive. But hey, if you didn't already have a reason to spend a few hours, or a day, or your next vacation, at the beach, then consider your health!

Wherever you live, you can surround yourself with the grace and beauty of the sea with our line of coastal home decorations. When you can't escape to the real thing, remind yourself of the soothing seascape with your home decor. Our "pink flamingo" and "blue heron" oil paintings evoke the rich wildlife of the seaside, while our "row boats" oil painting depicts the slow pace of life lived by the tide. Our line of afghans and pillows will not only bring the beauty of the lapping surf into your living room -- You'll literally be able to curl up and relax in their soothing imagery and textures. Other items like our natural fiber whales, driftwood fish mirror, or antique sand dollar and starfish can help bring that natural nautical splendor to your home. Contact us to start creating your nautical sanctuary.