Neuroscientists say that spending time near any body of water and simply looking at it can be enormously beneficial to our mental health because doing so can lower heart rate and blood pressure; reduce stress and anxiety; improve mood; balance hormones; ease mental fatigue; induce feelings of relaxation and help us to rejuvenate.
Water's dynamic quality is one of the key reasons it's so relaxing and beneficial. Its natural rhythm creates a play of light, color and sound that's meditative to look at. This contemplative, soft focus gives us a break from the demands of daily life and allows our brains and nervous systems to decompress and restore.
We experience being around water with all of our senses, which is why it's so good for our mental health. The sense of awe we get when gazing at bodies of water helps us put things in perspective and allows us to let go of rumination and stress. The sounds of water, whether it's gentle lapping or waves crashing, can activate the parasympathetic nervous system which induces deep relaxation. The smell of water often recalls days of relaxation and vacation, further reminding us to unwind and let go.
The good news is that urban waterways like rivers, canals and even fountains will give you these same benefits. So will pools, bathtubs and even sprinklers. Just get into that meditative zone by noticing the play of light, movement and sound.
Surprisingly, studies have shown that looking at videos, photos and paintings of water will give you similar benefits. The relaxing effects of looking at the colors blue and green may be related.
Try to spend two hours a week (even if broken up into chunks of time) by the water in order to get the most out of it.