As winter blankets the Midwest in its dreary grasp, I find myself yearning for the sun-soaked shores of a beach. Each day, I tell my partner how much I long for the ocean’s gentle waves, refreshing drinks, and the warmth of the sun on my skin. It’s a feeling many share; the winter months can feel particularly bleak. With the landscape painted in shades of grey and the cold temperatures hovering around freezing, it’s no surprise that thoughts of relocating to a waterfront paradise seem increasingly appealing.
What is it about the shimmering blues of the ocean or the serene greens of a lake that captivates us? While scientific research on the emotional benefits of water is limited, countless songs and stories celebrate its allure. Just imagine spending a week in a tropical paradise, sipping cocktails while the kids play in the sand—pure bliss.
Have you ever noticed how much more expensive vacation rentals are when they offer a stunning ocean view compared to those tucked away from the shoreline? That premium price often reflects the mental and emotional benefits we derive from being near water. A study suggests that both natural and constructed spaces featuring water are linked to greater happiness and a sense of restoration. Though I don’t need scientific backing to know that time spent by the water lifts my spirits, my experiences speak for themselves.
Last winter, during a particularly challenging time, we decided to use our travel points for a quick beach getaway with our two oldest children, leaving the younger ones with their grandparents. Those three days filled with biking, tennis, delicious seafood, and endless beach lounging allowed us to return home rejuvenated and ready to face our challenges.
A few years ago, close friends of ours left the Midwest for the shores of Lake Michigan, where my friend had grown up. After visiting them, I found myself researching housing prices and school districts in that area. Returning to our home in St. Louis, where the summer heat is unbearable and the nearby lakes are lackluster, felt even more unappealing after our lakeside adventure.
While we cherish our community, with its parks and excellent schools, I often dream of life by the water. I’ve asked my partner countless times if he could transfer to a job in a coastal town—sadly, that hasn’t happened yet. On the water, I find myself instinctively relaxing. The worries of daily life fade away, replaced by simpler joys like collecting seashells and enjoying the warmth of the sun. Time loses its significance, and the only concern becomes whether to reapply sunscreen.
The most remarkable benefit of being near the water is the way it alleviates my anxiety. I’ve never experienced a panic attack at the beach; the soothing sound of the waves seems to wash my stress away. In those moments, societal pressures fade, and I feel free from the need to conform to unrealistic beauty standards. When surrounded by endless water, my appearance in a swimsuit becomes irrelevant.
Of course, few of us have the luxury of spending every day on a secluded beach. Many families save for years to enjoy a vacation by the water, fully aware of the restorative effects it brings. Upon returning home, I find myself planning the next escape, eager to reconnect with nature and distance myself from daily stressors.
Winter days can be tough, often feeling like an endless cycle of searching for lost mittens and trying to find warmth in hearty soup recipes. Unlike the romanticized portrayals in movies, the reality of winter can feel mundane. Our longing for a life near the water lingers, reminding us that it might just be the key to a happier existence. For now, however, I’ll have to settle for a hot bath, a Pinterest board filled with vacation ideas, and the latest heartwarming read.
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In summary, the call of the water is hard to resist. It offers a sense of peace and rejuvenation that feels almost magical. As we navigate the challenges of winter, it’s easy to dream of a life where the ocean or lake is just outside our door, ready to soothe our souls.