From the Neurologist of the Central Customs Hospital: "The Miraculous effect of sea air on the nervous system"

Spending time at the seaside during the summer is not just about relaxation but also an important opportunity for health. Especially for the neurological system, the therapeutic and supportive role of sea air can be considered nature's own remedy. To learn more about how sea air affects human psyche and brain function, and what role it plays in modern problems like stress and insomnia, we turned to the experienced neurologist of the Central Customs Hospital, Mansuma Talibova.

– Dr. Mansuma, people prefer to rest at the seaside during the summer. How does sea air affect the body from a neurological perspective?

– The effect of sea air on human health, particularly on the nervous system, is quite significant. Due to its natural content of salt, iodine, magnesium, bromine, and other minerals, as well as negatively charged ions, sea air creates a variety of positive neurological effects.

First of all, negative ions — oxygen-rich and electrically charged air molecules — stimulate the production of neurotransmitters in the brain such as serotonin and melatonin. Serotonin plays a key role in stabilizing mood, while melatonin is important in regulating the sleep cycle. As a result, a person feels calmer, more balanced, and energized.

At the seaside rich in negative ions, brain activity stabilizes, chronic stress decreases, and pain sensitivity is reduced. At the same time, the repetitive movement and rhythmic sound of the waves activate alpha brain waves. These waves create a state similar to deep relaxation and meditation, helping to alleviate sleep problems and reduce emotional tension.

Contact with nature — especially viewing the open sea — sends calming impulses to the visual system. The dominance of blue shades like the sea and sky increases the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system in the brain. This strengthens the body’s rest and recovery mechanisms. Another important factor is the high oxygen content and cleanliness of the air, which improves oxygen supply to brain cells, enhancing mental focus and concentration.

In summary, sea air neurologically:

• Improves sleep quality and helps fight insomnia;

• Reduces headaches, migraines, and chronic fatigue;

• Eases depressive symptoms;

• Creates emotional stability and inner harmony;

• Enhances concentration and may improve memory.

Therefore, spending time at the seaside in the summer can be considered a natural therapy not only for relaxation but also for maintaining neurological health.

– For which specific neurological conditions is this effect particularly beneficial?

– It is most beneficial for patients suffering from chronic stress, panic attacks, insomnia, depressive states, migraines, and autonomic nervous system disorders. Even a 20-minute daily walk in such an environment can restore the nervous system of patients with nervous disorders. Sea air combined with sunlight stimulates vitamin D synthesis and increases serotonin levels, which reduces depression symptoms. Also, sea air and environment restore the balance of the autonomic nervous system. It has been observed that 70% of people suffering from autonomic dysfunction experience significant relief of symptoms and a more comfortable life while spending time in nature — especially by the sea.

– Does sea air also affect brain activity and attention?

– Yes, absolutely. In urban environments, the human brain is constantly tense due to noise, artificial light, and visual overload. At the seaside, these factors disappear, the brain rests, and attention and mental agility improve. This is particularly important for people experiencing poor attention, mental fatigue, and burnout. In this natural environment, the levels of stress hormones in the brain decrease, thus improving attention capacity and information processing speed. This is especially valuable for individuals with attention deficit, mental fatigue, and burnout.

– How often and in what way is seaside rest recommended for neurological health?

– Of course, each patient’s individual condition should be considered. However, generally, daily seaside walks lasting 30 to 60 minutes are beneficial. This increases physical activity and relaxes the nervous system. Being at the seaside during the morning hours and at sunset is more effective. Sunbathing should be done before 10:00 AM and after 5:00 PM.

– Is it possible to benefit from the miraculous effects of sea air year-round, or is it better to visit the seaside only in summer?

– The benefits of sea air for human health are not limited to the summer season only. On the contrary, with proper clothing and medical advice, being at the seaside during all seasons, especially spring and autumn, can be very beneficial. In some cases, sea air therapy during the winter months can be even more effective.

The benefits of sea air are maximized in summer due to sunlight, vitamin D, and fresh air. However, the air composition — meaning the richness of sea air with minerals, salt, and negative ions — remains consistent throughout the year. Only air temperature and humidity change. In autumn and spring, it helps reduce allergic reactions and headaches related to weather changes. Cooler weather helps balance the autonomic nervous system, stabilizes blood pressure and heart rhythm. It is also an excellent environment to reduce stress levels and prevent seasonal depression.

• During winter, oxygen and iodine content at the seaside are even higher because cold air carries salty particles farther. The shores are quieter and less noisy during this period, which creates neurological calm and a meditative effect, effectively improving sleep patterns and psychological stability. It is also very beneficial for the respiratory system and brain oxygenation.

– What would you recommend to our readers at the end?

– Sea air is one of the most valuable health resources nature has gifted us. Especially for those with neurological problems, it can be not only an addition to medication but also a very effective natural treatment. Work, stress, and daily worries tire us both mentally and physically. Therefore, whenever possible, try to spend time by the sea throughout the year — breathe the fresh air, listen to the sound of waves, feel the energy of the sun and nature. This calms our nervous system, restores our attention, and positively affects our overall health. These small but precious breaks will improve your quality of life and reduce your stress levels. Such natural therapy will be useful and effective not only for you but also for your loved ones.

Dilara Zamanova

Public Relations Specialist at the Central Customs Hospital