Have you ever been in a thunderstorm or at the beach and suddenly felt a sudden shift in your mood? That might not be a feeling of awe. It could be negative ions.
Negative ions are molecules floating in the air or atmosphere that have been charged with electricity. Negative ions exist throughout nature in places, including:
Produced as part of the normal growth process of many plants.
Wherever water collides with itself like a wave crashing upon the shore or a waterfall cascading down a cliffside. Creating the Lenard effect.
Ultraviolet rays from the sun.
Discharges of electricity in the air after a thunderclap or lightning strike.
We inhale these invisible molecules in abundance whenever we are near moving water. Once they reach our bloodstream, negative ions are believed to produce biochemical reactions that increase serotonin levels (mood chemical) helping to alleviate depression, relieve stress, and boost our overall energy levels.
WHAT DO THEY DO?
Generally speaking, negative ions increase the flow of oxygen to the brain; resulting in higher alertness, decreased drowsiness, and more mental energy,” says Pierce J. Howard, PhD, author of The Owners Manual for the Brain: Every day applications from mind brain. Research and director of research at the Center for Applied Cognitive Sciences in Charlotte,N.C.
THE TAKE AWAY.
The benefits of negative ion exposure are proven and legitimate. We can all benefit from negative ion exposure. Some fun ways to get your negative ion kick in Laguna beach include:
Taking a walk on the beach. (at least 30 minutes)
Take a beginner surf lesson or stand up paddle tour with Laguna Ethos.
Enjoy an invigorating kayak tour of laguna beach.
Go for a swim or enjoy simply floating around one of laguna’s many swell protected coves.