BEACH BRAIN

Science finds that spending time by the water is very good for your well being. According to data, those who live by the coast report better physical and mental health than those who don't. When it comes to why, exactly, the beach gets you feeling Zen. There are a few factors at play: the color blue has been found to be associated with feelings of calm and peace. Studies show that staring at the ocean actually changes our brain wave frequencies and puts us into a mild meditative state. Plus, that consistent ebbing and flowing you hear as you lie on your towel under an umbrella. The noises, coupled with the visuals, activate your parasympathetic nervous system. The smell of the ocean breeze also contributes to your soothed state, which may have something to do with the negative ions in the air that you're breathing in. It's suggested that aroma therapy using beach inspired fragrances relieve the symptoms of seasonal affect disorder. B.Witching Bath Co.'s new Waves & Driftwood fragrance blends aromas of salty ocean breeze, warm amber and driftwood, just what you would expect at the beach.