What is it about sand?

What is it about a little sand between the toes that calms the heart and mind? (I know I am not alone in this.) I was having a hard time today so I decided to spend my lunchtime at a beach not far from work. In general I am not a fan of the beach. Why is it that when times are rough a little beach time is so soothing? I walked a little, sang a little, prayed a little and just sat a little. It worked like a charm. Don't get me wrong the issues are still there, I am just feel more able to deal with them. Ah, the power of sand.