The beneficial effects of sea air: A journey of discovery along different coasts
The sea has an irresistible attraction - the soothing sound of the waves, the salty scent of the air and the feeling of space and freedom. But in addition to its aesthetic appeal, the sea, and especially its air, offers a multitude of potential health benefits. In this article, we discover the properties of sea air on different coasts, from the North Sea and the Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean, with its beneficial properties.
The North Sea: a fresh breeze and an invigorating force
The North Sea impresses with its rugged beauty and cool sea air. The characteristic coastal climate with strong winds and high humidity makes the air particularly clean and invigorating. The salty breeze of the North Sea contains a variety of minerals and trace elements that are known for their health-promoting properties. Salts such as sodium chloride, magnesium sulfate, calcium and potassium are transported into the air by the strong gusts and breaking waves. How salty is sea water? The salt content, also known as salinity , is on average 3.5% in the North Sea. The sea air of the North Sea is particularly good for cleaning the respiratory tract and relieving inflammation.
The Baltic Sea: mild sea breeze and gentle healing powers
In contrast to the rough North Sea, the Baltic Sea offers a gentler sea breeze that still has many health benefits. Due to its location, the Baltic Sea is low in tides, and the water is also significantly less salty. The salinity level is between 0.3% and 1.8%. The Baltic Sea air is nevertheless rich in trace elements, such as iodine, which is important for healthy thyroid function . Breathing in iodine-rich air can regulate metabolism and strengthen the immune system. The mild climate with relatively warm winters makes the Baltic Sea a year-round holiday destination. The Baltic Sea air can also have a soothing effect on the skin and help with skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Due to these trace elements, Baltic Sea mud is often offered as a beauty treatment in various health resorts.
The Mediterranean: flair and a sensual atmosphere
A fascinating mix of mild climate, clear waters and rich cultural history can be found on the Mediterranean coast. In contrast to the harsher conditions of the North and Baltic Seas, the Mediterranean offers a very different experience. The Mediterranean air is characterized by a variety of minerals such as magnesium, calcium, potassium and bromine. These minerals are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and positive health effects.
The higher temperatures in the Mediterranean region lead to increased evaporation of sea water, which increases humidity. This increased humidity can moisten the respiratory tract and promote mucus production. Thanks to the warm winds and strong sunlight, the air on the Mediterranean coast is also saturated with the aromatic scents of flowers and herbs, which is particularly stimulating to the senses. However, for allergy and asthma sufferers, these additional ingredients can pose more of a challenge.
Sea air cures: a long tradition of health promotion
The history of sea air cures goes back a long way and can be found in various cultures all over the world. The healing effects of sea air and sea water were already appreciated in ancient times. The ancient Greeks and Romans, for example, visited the coast to recover from various illnesses and improve their general health.
In the 18th century, sea air cures began to gain popularity as an official therapeutic practice in coastal regions along the Atlantic. The first medical reports and recommendations on sea air cures also date from this period. Doctors and researchers noticed the positive effects of sea air on the respiratory system, skin and general well-being of their patients and began to recommend and actively research this form of therapy.
Today, sea air cures are used as an accompanying therapy for a variety of health problems. Especially for respiratory diseases such as asthma, bronchitis and COPD, the salty sea air can help to clean the airways, loosen mucus and relieve inflammation.
Long-term effect and lasting relief
The effects of sea air treatments can vary depending on health conditions and treatment needs. While some people notice an improvement in their well-being quickly, long-term therapies in particular can provide sustained relief from symptoms for several months or even years. Long-term salt inhalation therapies can strengthen the immune system, improve lung function, and better regulate stress hormones and neurotransmitters. Short-term stays at the sea can also provide relief for severe lung diseases, but usually only for the duration of the stay. Therefore, a long-term treatment in particular can offer lasting physiological effects when there is high daily stress. To achieve and maintain these long-term improvements, it is important to regularly spend time at the sea or to integrate other therapeutic measures into everyday life to refresh the effects.
The sea smells good, tastes good and feels good
Sea air offers many benefits that vary depending on the coast. From the rough North Sea to the gentle Baltic Sea to the sunny Mediterranean, each coast offers a unique atmosphere and healing effect. Although nothing can replace the experience of a seaside holiday, regular salt air treatments at home or in special facilities can help improve wellbeing and support health.