For most of us, being around the water spurs a positive mental reaction — it’s a human psychological phenomenon that scientists call the “blue mind.” And during a getaway in the Myrtle Beach area, the raw power and restorative nature of the ocean make the resulting happiness and satisfaction even more likely, whether you look at the beach and surf as a personal gym, a place to relax or something of a natural pharmacy.
Consider all of the potential health benefits you can reap during a vacation at North Myrtle Beach’s North Beach Plantation:
Relaxation: With the breaking waves of the Atlantic Ocean and the sandy shoreline of North Myrtle Beach just steps from their comfortable accommodations, guests at North Beach Plantation can get Zen aplenty right in the resort’s backyard. They can also kick back and enjoy our 2.5-acre oceanfront water escape, which boasts an array of water features including swimming pools, hot tubs, private cabanas, a lazy river, private beach access and a swim-up pool bar.
Of course, sometimes just being still is the best prescription for the mind, body and soul. Science can attest that few things are more restful and restorative than a spa trip, which tends to make every little thing a whole lot better. Consider a Spa Sampler at North Beach Plantation’s on-site Cinzia Spa, where a massage, facial, and manicure or pedicure will melt you into pure bliss. And yes — men can benefit from spa days, too.
Vitamin D: You’re likely aware that many of us could use more vitamin D, right? The vitamin promotes bone health, and it may help reduce heart disease risk, lower blood pressure and even fight cancer. Your body produces it when your bare skin is exposed to sunlight, and researchers say that just 15 minutes of exposure at high sun a few times a week will help produce the vitamin D you need.
Guests at North Beach Plantation can easily get a free, healthy dose of vitamin D with a walk down the beach, not to mention the oft-needed exfoliation that sand performs on beaten-down city feet. (But please — slather on some sunscreen and put on your shirt and hat after your timed exposure. You know what they say about too much of a good thing.)
Exercise: Since we’re on the topic of walking, know that striding on sand takes 2.1 to 2.7 times more energy than doing the same on a hard surface does — providing yet another reason to book regular beach vacations. And, of course, with the previously mentioned array of water features on the resort premises and the ocean steps away from their accommodations, opportunities to go for a swim are abundant for North Beach Plantation guests.
Walking and swimming are not the only ways to get a healthy workout. Guests at North Beach Plantation can always visit the resort’s fully equipped Beach Fit fitness center to work in some cardio. Another active option is to rent a cool cruiser bike from North Strand Beach Service (it’s about 2 miles north of the resort, just off North Kings Highway) and explore the area via pedal power.
Better Breathing and Skin: Then there’s the salt factor. Ocean air helps clear out the lungs, making it easier to breathe. And immersing yourself in salt water, even for a few moments, is said to have antibacterial effects on the skin, thereby helping heal acne and cuts and reducing inflammation.
Good Nutrition: While there are plenty of delicious meals to be had in the area immediately surrounding the resort, the Myrtle Beach area is also home to several very health-conscious eateries that can provide an energy-boosting sit-down meal or a tempting grab & go option to throw in your bike basket or backpack. Clean Eatz has three locations on the Grand Strand, all offering delicacies such as sweet-potato-chip nachos, build-a-bowls and wraps that are perfect for takeout. Fresh Market is a popular, upscale grocery store for stocking up on any number of luscious prepared eats and a bottle of wine — perfect for taking back to North Beach Plantation and relaxing in the ocean air! And Kindbelly serves up feel-good, clean-eating breakfast and lunch, and the restaurant offers health-conscious options such as on-tap organic kombucha, organic microgreens and grilled tofu (organic, of course).
With so many healthful reasons to head for the Carolina coast, you should book your trip to North Beach Plantation today — your doctor and your family are both sure to approve!
