The vast majority of people live in big cities well away from water, with a large remainder in in-land rural estates. Only a small number of people actually live on the waterfront, partly because of limited space, and also partly because of worries concerning keeping children safe.
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However, many people are increasingly seeing it as their goal to live by a river, sea, or lake. The idea of having water nearby is somehow beneficial for the soul and encourages more individuals to make the move.
But what does it feel like to live on the waterfront exactly? Let’s learn more.
Calming
Perhaps the overriding sensation you have is one of peace and tranquillity. Perhaps that’s the main reason why so many Wall Street executives make Long Island their home. Having access to water naturally calms the activity of the nervous system and helps to generate a sense of contentment.
Researchers have found that water is calming for several reasons. The mere sight of it, according to those who investigate such matters, can change neurochemistry in a way that induces more positive feelings and increases blood flow to the heart and brain. In other words, water activates the body’s parasympathetic nervous system which counterbalances the fight or flight response.
Refreshing
Living on the waterfront can also feel distinctly refreshing. Being close to a large body of water helps to reduce pollution and freshens the air considerably.
If you’ve ever stood by the banks of a large river in a big city, you’ll know this is true. The river itself appears to clear the air, reducing the diesel fumes and particles to which people are exposed.
Water also reduces the ambient temperature, particularly next to the sea. Excruciating heat waves are less likely to affect you if you live close to a body of water because of its natural air conditioning effect. It takes more than 10 times as much energy to heat a given volume of water than it does air.
Relaxing
The beautiful sounds and generally laid-back lifestyle of living on the waterfront also help you relax. That’s one of the reasons why so many people go to these locations on vacation. Imagine what it would be like to live there!
Sociable
Living in a waterfront location also feels sociable. People can come past at any time on their boats and say “hi.” Backyards can sometimes become places where people moor their vessels and come and spend time with you in your garden if that’s what you want.
Nostalgic
Finally, living in a waterfront location can feel nostalgic. When more people than ever before are piling into cities, owning a home by the water almost feels quaint, even if it is new and modern. It makes it feel like you’ve stepped back in time when life had a different pace about it.
So, there you have it: some of the feelings you might experience if you live on a waterfront. Ultimately, if you want to find out how it feels, you’ll need to move into a property and try it out.
