By Murray Sherriffs
The news comes from decades of study of rain’s potential mood-boosting abilities.
Research shows that rain removes harmful substances from the air and the unmistakable smell can even enhance our memory.
The predominant reason may be that rain releases negative air ions—oxygen molecules with an extra electron—which form as raindrops collide or hit a surface and split apart.
These are known to boost serotonin and alpha waves in the brain, leading to a happier, more relaxed state.
When raindrops hit the ground, they can splatter and release negative ions.
The process is called the Lenard effect.
So if you’re hoping to get a sizeable dose of serotonin-boosting negative ions, take a walk in the rain.
Some scientists believe these positive effects may be due to negative air ions increasing oxygen levels in the blood, resulting in a mood boost similar to the boost one gets from intense exercise.
