Why do people generally feel better by a trout stream, waterfall or on the beach? Beyond the beauty of nature, there may be something else going on that puts us at ease when we are close to running water.
When water molecules collide, they produce negative ions - also called anions. When we breath in these negatively-charged particles, they are said to increase levels of serotonin - the mood chemical (Per webmd.com's Denise Mann):
"Once they reach our bloodstream, negative ions are believed to produce biochemical reactions that increase levels of the mood chemical serotonin, helping to alleviate depression, relieve stress, and boost our daytime energy."
Can a person achieve this same benefit in their own home? Quite possibly! Standing under a warm shower may produce the same effect. And a simple indoor water fountain could work the same way.
Does this really happen? Well, there is some sound science to back up the reality of this phenomenon, but there will be skeptics. The idea that you can feel better by breathing in something that can't be seen, heard, smelled or tasted definitely will generate skepticism, but as a life-long skeptic and former research engineer, I find the "theory" fascinating.
But right now, I need to price one of those indoor water fountains. I can picture those water molecules colliding with the stone - and each other - to transform themselves into anions - and subsequently raise the mood of this aging codger.
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