When it comes to deciding where to live, lots of factors can be involved. From house prices and affordability to amenities and, maybe, most importantly, the atmosphere of the place., If you are considering Aberdeenshire as somewhere to settle down, Stonehaven, a charming harbour town, might just be the area you have been looking for.

Have you heard of blue space?

Similar to green spaces, blue spaces promote positive well-being. They are areas where we find water, such as the sea, rivers, lakes and streams. Just looking into natural spaces and taking in the scenery has been shown to bring about positive physical and mental changes. If this doesn’t want to make you live by the sea, there are plenty more benefits.

Are you looking to relax?

In the last ten years, much research has been carried out on the effects of blue space, with many experts finding that it lowers the risk of stress, anxiety, and premature death. Just the sound of the waves activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which slows down the brain, promoting relaxation. Water really does have restorative powers.

How the sea can improve your health

The sea air is less polluted. Anyone who has spent time by the sea knows that it tends to be windy, keeping the air clear of pollutants. Additionally, with tiny droplets of seawater rich in salt, iodine and magnesium, these minerals stimulate immune reactions, ultimately keeping you feeling healthier and happier.

Are you seeking a more active lifestyle?

Whether it is the space, the scenery or our body’s positive reactions making us want to spend more time outside when we are by the sea, the benefits are huge. It is medically proven that those who exercise regularly have a lower risk of developing some major illnesses, such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. With the sea on your doorstep, coastal paths to explore, and the hills of the cairngorms only a short drive away, Stonehaven has plenty of choices when it comes to choosing how to keep active.

A way to improve work satisfaction

Nowadays, we spend much of our time looking at screens, whether for work or to chill out and relax. But with long hours looking at screens, our eyes can become strained; that is where the 20:20:20 rule comes in. The rule follows, for every 20 minutes of screen time, look at something roughly 20 feet away for 20 seconds. The key here is to focus on something far away; 20 feet is a minimum, and looking out to sea would be perfect. People who are lucky enough to have a sea view report being happier and more satisfied than those who don’t have a view.

It’s time to find your dream home

With that in mind, if you are considering moving closer to the sea, you will want to find a home that maximises those benefits. Be sure to keep an eye on the new local listings to get your house-hunting journey started and find your dream home by the sea.