Just One Thing - with Michael Mosley
Embrace the Rain
Nov 1, 2023
Discover the health and mood-lifting benefits of rain, including improved air quality, relaxation from Geosmin, and the potential stress-reducing effects of negative air ions. Embrace the rain and experience its positive effects on mood, motivation, and focus. Learn about the advantages of walking in the rain and the cleanliness and freshness it brings. Dive into the science behind negative ions and their potential to combat depression and boost the immune system.
14:26
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Quick takeaways
- Rain improves air quality by washing away fine particulate pollution and releases fragrant compounds linked to relaxation and increased serotonin levels.
- Negative ions created after rainfall can reduce stress, stave off depression, and boost the immune system, providing mood-lifting benefits similar to bright light therapy or antidepressants.
Deep dives
The Benefits of Embracing Rainy Days
New research suggests that rainy days have hidden benefits for our mood and immune system. Rain releases compounds that impact the brain and body in a positive way, while also cleansing the air of harmful pollutants. Harvard Business School found that people are more productive when it's raining because they are less distracted. Rainy days also improve air quality, with a Japanese study showing a 20% reduction in harmful air particles after rain. Inhaling the smell of fresh rain, called Petricor, releases serotonin and promotes relaxation. Negative ions in the air during and after rain can improve mood and boost the immune system, similar to the effects of antidepressants.
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