“The cure for anything is salt water: sweat, tears or the sea.” -Isak Dinesen

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Everything from energy to agriculture has a water footprint. Almost all of the earth’s water contains salt. By no means am I suggesting you start eating a high sodium diet to lift your spirits. That could lead to numerous health problems like urinary calcium loss, leading to bone density loss, leading to osteoporosis, or perhaps high cholesterol or high blood pressure. If you are like me, and have low blood pressure your doctor might actually suggest a high sodium diet. That’s a totally different story. Here are some quick ways to incorporate a little salt water into your day.

Sweat It Out

An hour a day of exercise is as effective as leading anxiety and anti-depressant medications. (Harvard Health, 2016) You have to ask yourself, “Why aren’t more doctors prescribing exercise regimens over medications then?” Unfortunately, we live in a society of convenience. It takes a few seconds to swallow a pill, while an hour is a whopping 4% of your day. Next time your mood sucks, do 20-30 mins of high intensity training. Try to deny that you don’t feel awesome post workout. Not to mention the glowing effects sweating has on your skin.

Epsom Salt Bath

Soaking in a warm epsom salt bath may relieve joint and muscle discomfort. The best part is that epsom salt is inexpensive and easy to find. Most grocery stores and pharmacies carry epsom salt.

A Good Cry

According to “tear expert” and biochemist Dr. William Frey we have reflex tears and emotional tears. Reflex tears are 98% water, while emotional tears contain stress hormones. Grab a sappy movie, put on some mood music, rummage through photos and face your emotions head on. Feel the emotion. Let the emotion resonate. Have a good, stress hormone filled cry and move forward.

Trip To The Beach or Hot Springs

It’s not surprising that listening to waves break on a shoreline is relaxing. Did you know that the earth’s water contains salt and other trace minerals like iodine and magnesium which can have neutralizing effects on the body? The temperature of the water plays a key role in healing as well. Cool water can help sooth the nerves (shocker, I know), while warm water can ease muscle tension. Whatever your preference, go for a dip.

Beach Style Meditation

The sound of waves can actually alter our brain wave patterns resulting in a meditative state. If you can’t get to the beach, meditate – beach style. Listen to waves, imagine the warm sun on your tightening skin, the salty breeze blowing across your face, the smells, the sounds…..put on your suit and sit in a beach chair if it helps. Sit back, close your eyes, and let your mind drift away.