There’s a reason so many of us feel instantly relaxed by the ocean or find peace sitting beside a lake. It’s not just in our heads; research supports what many know: being near the water is good for us. A 2013 study in Health & Place found that people living within half a mile of the coast were likelier to report good health. As more of us work remotely and spend long hours on screens, there’s a growing appreciation for what proximity to the water can offer, not just as a scenic escape but as a contributor to physical, emotional, and social well-being. At The Club at Hammock Beach, this connection to water isn’t just part of the view and daily life.
Why We’re Wired for Water
So, what is it about water that draws us in? Marine biologist Dr. Wallace J. Nichols coined the term "blue mind" to describe the calm, clear-headed state we experience near water. Our brains respond to the rhythm of waves and the shimmer of light on the surface by relaxing, lowering stress hormones, and improving emotional regulation.
There’s also a neurological basis: the parasympathetic nervous system, which governs rest and recovery, is activated in relaxing environments like beaches or riversides. Watching water can pull us out of fight-or-flight mode and into a more peaceful mind.
Mental Health Benefits
Water isn’t just calming; it’s restorative. An extensive 2019 study of more than 26,000 people found that those who lived near the coast or other water bodies reported higher emotional well-being and life satisfaction.
The mental break that water offers is real. Unlike screen time, which demands constant focus, time spent near water allows the mind to drift, explore, and imagine. This mental rest can help restore our attention, boost our creativity, and improve our mood. Even a short walk on the beach can lower anxiety. That mental reset is much needed for people in high-pressure jobs or remote work.
Activities like swimming, paddleboarding, or just sitting by the shore have also been linked to reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression. People who regularly engage with water often experience lasting improvements in mental health.
Physical Health Benefits of Coastal Living
Being near water often means being outdoors more. That might look like daily beach walks, yoga on the shore, or water sports; these exercises improve cardiovascular health, reduce blood pressure, and support overall fitness.
There’s also the bonus of sunlight. Exposure to natural light helps regulate sleep cycles and boosts vitamin D levels, which support immune function and bone health, and surprisingly, many people are vitamin D deficient. Even the ocean air has its benefits! It’s rich in salt and moisture, which helps respiratory function, especially for those with asthma or allergies.
Community and Connection by the Water
Waterfronts tend to bring people together. Boardwalks, beaches, and marinas create natural meeting spots for conversations and spontaneous connections. These shared spaces foster a sense of community and belonging.
Research published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology shows that coastal communities often report higher neighborhood trust and social engagement. At the Club at Hammock Beach, for example, the layout encourages this kind of interaction, whether through wellness events, group activities, rounds of golf or tennis, or simply crossing paths on a beach walk.
Long-Term Stress Relief
Chronic stress is a leading driver of modern health problems, from cardiovascular disease to depression. Natural water settings have been shown to reduce wear and tear on your body from ongoing stress.
Time near water promotes better sleep, lowers inflammation, and helps regulate mood. Whether sailing, swimming, or sitting by the sea, regular time near water gives the body a chance to reset.
Water and Longevity
In places like Okinawa and Shikoku in Japan, regions known for long life expectancy, it's no surprise that their proximity to the sea is part of everyday life. These communities benefit from more than just the good seafood. The rhythm of coastal life, frequent movement, strong community, and a relationship with nature support healthy aging.
Living near water encourages a more active, connected, and nature-centered lifestyle. Over time, these habits support both physical health and emotional resilience.
Why Waterfront Living Holds Its Value
Homes near water aren’t just valued for their coveted views; they’re a solid investment. Zillow data shows that water-view properties can sell for 30–50% more than inland homes and tend to appreciate steadily.
But the lifestyle they support may be even more valuable: mornings with coffee by the sea, spontaneous swims, or dinners with a view. Hammock Beach members experience these moments daily, and around every turn is the opportunity to take in the benefits of the water, supported by thoughtful design and amenities built around the natural setting.
Working Remotely, Living Better
As more people embrace remote work, the freedom to live where you want has become a reality. For many, that means moving closer to water, not just for the view but for a more active approach to life.
According to MIT urban mobility expert Dr. Jinhua Zhao, environments like oceans and lakes enhance focus and productivity. The Club at Hammock Beach members and residents often find themselves recharged by walks on the beach between meetings or inspired by the view outside their home office.
Wellness Tourism by the Water
Wellness tourism is booming, and many travelers seek experiences centered around water. From hydrotherapy to beach yoga, these offerings support both relaxation and health.
With amenities like a full-service spa, saltwater pools, and outdoor fitness classes, The Club at Hammock Beach is part of this growing movement. It offers residents a chance to recharge without having to go far.
Daily Rituals That Make a Difference
One of the simplest ways to integrate wellness into your life is by creating routines around nature. A sunrise walk, evening paddle, or even journaling by the waves can become grounding rituals.
These are just small acts of being present in your life and disconnecting from the daily grind. They remind us to slow down, pay attention, and stay connected to the natural world. The Club at Hammock Beach offers the space and setting to make these practices a habit.
In the End
Our bond with water runs deep. It’s the reason we seek it out for vacations and why coastal living is so desirable. The benefits of a healthier nervous system, lifted spirits, and a like-minded community are endless. In this fast-paced world of AI and the internet, time by the water isn’t a luxury; it’s a return to simplicity.
Choosing a life near the water is about more than scenery. It's a decision to choose a lifestyle rooted in wellness, presence, and connection. At The Club at Hammock Beach, you don't visit that lifestyle. It's something you live.