‘Happy ions’
August 20, 2010
Scientific research has shown that the negative ions produced in high concentrations by waterfalls, ocean surf, on mountain-tops and after storms (and to some extent by plants) are beneficial for our mental and physical health. These so-called ‘happy ions’ affect our mood, energy, libido and sense of well-being and have the ability to improve our sleep and recuperation (V. Laza, International Conference on Advancements in Medicine and Health Care through Technology, 2009).
Waterfalls have always been dear to my heart. As a child at our holiday cottage in a Scottish glen, I used to walk to the local “burn” (creek) and sit for ages on a rock beside the water as it tumbled down the hillside. I’d close my eyes to listen and let the sounds transport me away. In springtime when the burn was swollen with melting snow, I felt so alive in my body with the power of the cascading water thundering past and from the icy-cold spray on my face. In summer or autumn when the burn was lower, I’d find my mind soothed by its almost hypnotic lazy trickle.
Whatever the conditions, I felt better every single time after a visit to the waterfall, although I never questioned why.
We are giving ourselves the optimum conditions to feel better both mentally and physically when we go to the seashore or forest, hang out by a waterfall, stand on a mountain-top or go outside after a storm.
It’s true that mountains are difficult to find in most cities and some places are far from the ocean so let’s use what’s available! In Sydney, for instance, there is plenty of coastline and it’s possible to find small waterfalls in national parks and reserves. Wherever we live, we can go outside after a storm to get a dose of ‘happy ions’ and if not, we can open up our windows and let them in!
Stopping briefly by a fountain in the park or a water feature in your home/workplace/garden centre at the very least will quieten your mind and you may pick up some extra negative ions along the way. In between times, try looking at pictures and videos of waterfalls or ocean surf as they can help engender positive feelings.
Below are a few suggested video links and websites. You can always mute the videos if you don’t want the music.
Waterfalls:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVR5CvekD7s&feature=player_embedded
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PL0vpNg1yA&feature=more_related
http://www.world-of-waterfalls.com/australia-new-south-wales.html
Ocean:
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