the benefits of breathing in beach air and surfing

so it seems, via the new york times, that science is backing up my water craving! i have tried to describe it as "if too much time goes by without a visit to the ocean, i feel thirsty for it" or "i just have to be around water" and "a bathtub is a must in any home i live in"...so i smiled at the title of the article and the caption, "burning question: does the sea air have curative powers?" in the 18th and 19th centuries, ocean air was considered a cure-all. (pick up any novel authored during that time and some hero or heroine is being instructed by their physician to 'go to the seaside'). some data does exist to conclude that inhaling salty air can clear the lungs. one expert, thomas w. ferkel, says, "i'm not sure how much of the improvement is spiritual, metaphysical or physiological, but i suspect it's all...the sounds of the breeze and repetitive waves can relax you, which may result in better sleep..." he is quoted as saying he would love to be able to write a prescription for his patients to go to the beach. sick? go surfing! i like it...