Why does water exposure lower stress?

Exposure to water soothes your mind, as reflected in the neurophysiological effects measurable whenever we are in a watery environment. Water in its varying natural states has effects on our brains that terrestrial nature cannot rival. Count on getting a serious dopamine hit from visiting the ocean, a river, or a lake, and it will happen much faster than if land-based nature were trying to do the same thing. Water activates multiple aspects of our senses together.

Science explains why water is so effective at reducing stress: negative ions increase the amount of oxygen flowing to your brain, helping you think more clearly and stay alert. Studies show that images of blue spaces (water) reduce production of the stress hormone cortisol more quickly than green images do. And the sounds of water create brain wave patterns similar to deep meditative states! The cumulative effect of these responses is powerful biological relaxation.

Water accessibility is a reality, no matter your surroundings. Those who live by the sea visit the beach regularly; those who live farther inland find recordings, and indoors, a fountain or squirt bottle can be quite therapeutic. Even the variety of water features in urban areas has a calming and exhilarating effect. We have access to the relaxation-inducing properties of water anywhere.

Immediately immerse yourself in water therapy through simple daily rituals. Listen to wave CDs at work during your breaks. Take a walk by the river or visit a local fountain, and enjoy lunch outside to renew your spirit. Buy a tabletop water gadget for your home. You'll notice some immediate calming effect just from continuous exposure to these healing elements; your nervous system responds immediately to such stimuli and nothing else.

Read the full article: Nature Therapy: Unlocking Healing Through the Outdoors