As the year draws to a close and a fresh start beckons, it’s time to reflect on the past 12 months and set intentions for the year ahead. New Year’s resolutions are a classic tradition, which we often centre around grand goals of self-improvement, fitness, weight loss and personal growth.
However, why not do it a bit differently this year and set more fulfilling resolutions, by letting your passions inspire your goals?
If you love the seaside, here are some resolutions inspired by the coast, to guide you into a healthier, happier year ahead…
Get Outside More
There’s nothing quite like an invigorating blast of fresh sea air to pique the senses, raise your heart rate and bring a rosy glow to your cheeks. Time by the sea has been proven to improve health, lower stress levels, and make you sleep better. So one of the most effective resolutions is simply to spend more time outdoors by the coast. Whether that’s a brisk beach walk, a picnic on the shoreline, or dawn-to-dusk days with your toes in the sand, getting outside more will do wonders for your mental and physical health.
Dip for Health
Sea swimming has gained popularity in recent years, and for good reason. The cold water can boost your immune system, release endorphins (happy hormones), improve circulation, and reduce stress. So make it your resolution to take the plunge at some of our top wild swimming spots on the UK coast. If you’re new to sea swimming, start slowly and gradually increase your exposure time. Remember to always swim with a buddy and check the tides and sea conditions.
Take Up a New Hobby
Trying something new is great for your mind and body, and the coast offers countless opportunities for new hobbies or activities. Why not consider taking up surfing or paddleboarding – two of the fast-growing watersports that you can try during a coastal holiday anywhere in the UK from the top of Scotland to the tip of Cornwall. There are surf schools galore with all the kit and caboodle, and expert knowledge to ensure you’re king of the waves in no time at all. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, try kayaking, sailing or beachcombing.
Protect the Environment You Love
Taking action to look after the places we love not only helps to protect our natural landscapes, but makes us feel good, too. As beach lovers, we have a responsibility to protect our coastlines. So make a resolution to reduce your plastic consumption, participate in beach clean-ups, and support sustainable tourism. Small actions can make a big difference.
Exercise in Nature’s Gym
Ditch the expensive gym membership that everyone thinks is a quick-fix for fitness and weight loss in January. The beach is the perfect place to get fit. Whether you enjoy running, cycling, surfing, or simply walking, the fresh air and stunning scenery beckons you to get out, and workout. You could even try a new outdoor fitness class, such as yoga or Pilates. Check out some of our favourite health and fitness breaks by the sea for inspiration.
Digital Detox
Disconnect. Slow down. Breathe deeply. Be in the moment. In our increasingly fast-paced, tech-led lifestyles, never has it been more vital to escape from digital distractions and reconnect with nature. Make a conscious effort to spend less time on your screen, and swap 5G for five-star scenery when you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the coast. We’ve got some great ideas for coastal destinations where you can go to reboot and reconnect in the power of nature.
Eat Yourself Healthy
The abundance of fresh seafood and local produce plucked from land and sea in coastal regions makes it easy to eat healthily by the sea. Incorporate more fish into your diet, scour the shoreline for edible seaweed and fill your baskets and bellies with fresh, seasonal ingredients from local producers. You are what you eat, and good food will leave you feeling great for the year ahead. Treat yourself with a trip to a top foodie destination such as Devon or Suffolk.
Learn a New Skill
The coast isn’t just a great place to take up active pursuits, it’s an inspirational environment to learn an array of new skills. How about rousing your muse with a writing course, learning to commit the seascapes to canvas on a painting course, or take a photography workshop so you can capture the storms, surf and stunning scenery? If you want to cultivate your culinary skills, join a cookery school, such as Coastal Cooking in Devon or the Philleigh Way Cookery School in Cornwall.
Explore New Places
A change of scenery is good for you, especially when it’s a stunning sea-lashed coastline that fills your sights and senses. So make this your year to explore new beaches, seaside towns, and coastal terrain. From traditional seaside towns to natural wonders nudging the sea, the UK is home to a stunning coastline just beckoning you to enjoy and explore.
Boost Your Wellbeing by the Sea
From coastal walks to meditation, there are plenty of blue health activities that will boost your wellbeing by the sea. Throughout 2024, mobile saunas popped up on beaches all over Britain, and this Scandinavian wellbeing practice has become a huge hit on our shores. So make this your year to try a sauna by the sea, where you can soak up the scenery, stay warm and reap a list of health benefits including improved sleep, stress reduction and detoxification.
Book a Break By the Sea for 2025
By incorporating your love of the sea into your New Year’s resolutions, you can create a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling year. So, what are you waiting for? Browse our collection of coastal cottages and start planning your seaside adventures today!
