Beaches

Vocabulary

1. ubiquitous (Adj)

/juːˈbɪkwɪtəs/ present, appearing, or found everywhere

Eg: Automobiles are ubiquitous in industrialized nations.

2. abundance (n)

/əˈbʌndəns/ the fact of being very large in quantity

Eg: There is an abundance of information available on the web.

3. tranquility (n)

/træŋˈkwɪləti/ the quality or state of being calm; peacefulness; quiet; serenity

Eg: Nothing can beat the calm and tranquility of rural life.

4. pensively (Adv)

/ˈpɛnsɪvli/ as if engaged in deep thought; thoughtfully; contemplatively

Eg: He was staring pensively at old family photos.

5. dopamine (n)

/ˈdoʊpəmiːn/ a chemical in the brain that is often associated with positive emotions

Eg: Dark chocolate increases the level of dopamine in the brain.

6. serotonin (n)

/ˌserəˈtoʊnɪn/ a chemical in the brain that is often associated with positive emotions, sleep regulation, and memory formation

Eg: Exercising increases the level of serotonin in the brain and improves one's mood.

7. hectic (Adj)

/ˈhɛktɪk/ busy; full of frantic activity

Eg: I understand your schedule has been very hectic lately

Reading

Beaches

Excessive stress is becoming ubiquitous in the modern world. Most of us deal with high levels of stress and anxiety on a daily basis. Meaningful leisure activities are an essential way to deal with these pressures. There is no universal answer as to which activity is best at reducing stress levels, but some recent studies indicate that spending time at the beach can bring about an abundance of health benefits.

Zen-like tranquility can be achieved at the beach simply by looking pensively at the ocean, as studies have shown that the blue color has a positive effect on the human brain. The sound of the ocean and the waves also have a comforting effect, as they invoke feel-good chemicals such as dopamine and serotonin.

Beach resorts are an increasingly popular holiday destination. Making use of a wide range of activities available in beach resorts, visitors can revitalize their energy levels. Relaxation, rest, and reinvigoration are fundamental to stress management in today's hectic and challenging world.

So if you're overwhelmed with work or are simply feeling worn out, head to the beach!

1. Which leisure activity is best at reducing stress levels?
2. According to the article, how can a person achieve "zen-like tranquility"?
3. Do dopamine and serotonin have a positive or negative effect on a person's mood?

Discussion

"The sun shines everywhere, not just at the beach." - Brande Roderick

1. What do you think this quote means?
2. Do you think beaches are overrated? Why? Why not?

Further Discussion

1. When was the last time you went to the beach? Where did you go?
2. Do you prefer swimming in the sea or in the river?
3. What is your favorite thing to do at the beach?
4. What are the possible dangers at a beach?
5. What are the advantages and disadvantages of living by the sea?
6. Would you like to live near the sea? Why? Why not?
7. In your opinion, should dogs be allowed at the beach? Why? Why not?