Do you ever wonder why getting into nature feels so good? There’s something about hearing the crash of the waves, the crunch of leaves under our feet during a forest hike or simply marveling at a majestic view of a colorful mountain range. It all just feels beyond ourselves.
We can’t deny that the beauty of nature that we can see, hear and feel is magnificent and can change our perspective, but is that what’s really feeding our soul? The answer is yes, and it’s also something else called negative ions.
Negative ions are just the opposite of what we think, they actually have a very positive impact on the air, our health and well being. Negative ions are good for us.
What are Negative Ions?
Scientifically, negative ions are molecules that are floating in the air that have gained one or more electrons and have become negatively charged, while positive ions have lost one or more electrons resulting in a positive charge. Negative ions are created from natural UV rays from sunlight, wherever water collides or produced in the normal growth process for plants. So basically, they are abundant anywhere that nature exists and they circulate in the air in the tens of thousands. In contrast, negative ions have registered to be a flat zero in office buildings and massive cities.
Negative ions mostly enter our bodies through our respiratory or skin pathways, the exposure leads to powerful and pleasant effects and this is due to the chemical reactions that the ions have with our neurotransmitters in the brain, our tissues and our DNA. Negative ions neutralize free radicals, kick start cell metabolism, enhance our immune system, detox our blood and balance our nervous system which helps with our sleep and digestion. And lastly, negative ions have a special relationship with the neurotransmitter or neuromodulator serotonin. Serotonin works with melatonin in many ways; controlling the sleep/wake cycle, how we perceive pain and can enhance our sexual desire. Increased serotonin supports a happier, calmer mood.
Another benefit that negative ions have is the ability to clean the air free of pollens, dust and mold spores which can certainly benefit people with allergy and asthma problems.
How to Increase Negative Ions
Columbia University ran a successful study with participants who suffered with chronic depression, they found that ion generators relieved their depression as much as antidepressants did. Unfortunately, other studies have not been quite as successful so the jury is still out on purchasing expensive ion generators or ion enhancing air purifiers.
One less expensive way to increase your negative ions is by taking a hot shower. The steam produced from the heat of the shower generates negative ions.
Another inexpensive way is by purchasing a calming salt lamp. Salt lamps have become increasingly popular in the last 10 years or so, as well salt caves. People love the glow and when the salt heats up, it generates negative ions. Most people like to keep one near their computer- while the computer is generating positive ions, at least the salt can generate some negative ions to create balance.
Of course, a free way to enhance exposure to negative ions, is to get out into nature on a daily basis.
