Contrary to popular belief, beaches were once a stressful environment that mankind did not favor. Yet, in the current age, there has been a change in humanity’s mindset as beaches have now become popular destinations and are associated with relaxation. But to first understand these contrasting viewpoints, it is vital to understand the overlooked history of beaches.
Although it is not widely known, beaches were in fact visited by humanity in their earlier history. However, the purpose of these visitations quite contrasts the reasons why people currently go to the beach. Ages ago, beaches were visited in the past as a means of survival. Humans explored beaches because “there was food to be had in the oceans” (The Complete History). This was common as in the past, hominids like Homo Sapiens and Neanderthals, used to settle in areas with access to water. At the beach, these ancestral beings would hunt marine life with their primitive technology to gather enough sustenance for themselves and their entire group. Since life was primitive back then, survival was the main priority. Additionally, the beach was an often feared area since “it was synonymous with dangerous wilderness” not to mention “natural disasters” as well (Blei). Hunting was as dangerous as it was beneficial back then. Although hunting was necessary, it was by no means an easy task nor was game also guaranteed. Countless humans have been killed by predators larger than life and by prey that confounded them. Back then, animals were voracious and fearsome creatures who were capable of demolishing anything within their path. Fear was instilled into the minds of humans as they entered the beach. It was within reason that humans feared entering the beach as they could evade certain death. However, as time moved forward, beliefs altered and feelings on the beach changed. Humanity no longer feared the beach and though it was gradual, this belief eventually equated to humans settling and sprawling on the beach. It was at that moment that the beach evolved from a stressful place to a place to relieve stress.
Despite this history, humans have ultimately conquered their fear of the beach due to their valiance. As a result, humans have been able to enjoy going to these resorts and have even gone as far as to settle near the pristine coast in warm beach homes.
I never understood the specialty of the beach but after experiencing it for the first time, I have come to comprehend the popularity of it and its compelling attraction. When I first arrived at the beach, I was 16 years old and struggled with my own personal problems. I lacked the peace of mind which I so desperately yearned for and was heedlessly restless during that time period. As I stepped on the beach however, there was a change in my wellbeing. Now, it wasn’t a huge distinction but it was just barely distinctive enough to distinguish that feeling.
That feeling was quite unique as it contrasted the ravenous nature of my negative sentiments. To be more specific, I felt a sense of serenity and relief. This feeling was only heightened as I stood on the warm sand that eventually engulfed my toes. This piqued my curiosity as I pondered why this specific environment encouraged my peace of mind. I heard crashing waves and the laughter of other people as I stood with my family under the radiant heat of the sun. The sun’s golden rays fell down upon me illuminating myself and enlightening me as the day progressed. The reason for why I felt the way I did still eluded me like a shadow. This mystery and these sentiments of mine only thickened as my beach experience went on. While my family went on enjoying their brief yet relaxing respite, I was alone near the waves. I did not know the reason behind my self imposed isolation.
Perhaps it was my feelings which inhibited me from fully enjoying my vacation or mayhaps it was the lack of addressing and coping with these feelings. Whichever the reason, it all was a hindrance to me.
For whichever reason, the sound of the waves resonated with me. Its calming aura relaxed the restlessness within me. Still eluded, I finally gave up on pondering and laid on the sand feeling its gentle warmth. The moment I gave up, however, I received an epiphany. It did not matter the reason for my sudden liberation, the only thing that mattered was my healing. The beach itself was a means for myself to break free from my illusionary anchor. Afterwards, I felt a hefty burden lifted off my back, thrown aside like a boulder. Feeling a sense of joy, I felt the beaches’ breeze as I breathed and beamed with bliss.
My experience, although fascinating, is not unique as there are others who experienced the same sensations as I. This is due in part to the beaches, which are responsible for these types of excursions as their innate qualities encourage them. It is important to note that beaches are near the coast, which is a vital component in “stress reduction” and the “restoration of depleted cognitive abilities.” As such, these popular destinations aid those who suffer from harmful emotions. Those with emotional baggage can be restored to their old selves by the beach. The beach is as helpful as it is symbolic of humanity’s ability to conquer many if not most of their fears.
I say most because there is one critical element that man still fears, that being mental health.
Stress, anxiety, and fear are a few emotions that constantly plague the masses. These sentiments are difficult to overcome as they are more intense and rigorous to cope with. Despite efforts to improve these conditions, there exists a prevalent stigma surrounding them. Mental health’s taboo and fearful nature has become a prevalent pestilence. People are chastised for improving their wellbeing which results in them ignoring their problems. Yet these same people who are judgmental are also plagued by problems affecting their mental plight. Not to mention, the unspoken feelings can manifest in various unhealthy and even harmful means. If people were more tolerant and less fearful, others would be more inclined to improve their wellbeing, allowing for a healthier society. Hopefully in the future humanity will learn not to fear mental health as they have once learned not to fear the beach.
In conclusion, the beach is a wonderful place to relax and improve one’s mental health. Despite it only being a strip of sand neighboring masses of water, beaches are a healing paradise with a strange albeit symbolic past. I rate the beach 5 out of 5 stars.
