You know being in nature is good for your mental health, and it’s one of the best and most accessible ways to improve your mood. However, new research shows that if you live near a body of water, you not only naturally feel calmer and more comfortable, but it may also be the secret to a healthy life in old age. Read this also Short, frequent walks near beaches, rivers or lakes can have benefits for mental health and mood.
What does the research say?
Throughout history, people around the world have recognized the healing effects of water. The Greeks sought out natural springs to keep their minds and bodies healthy, while the Japanese still practice misogi, ancient water cleansing, today. Now new findings show that the more water there is around the house, the less the mental decline, the Daily Mail reports.
According to a study published in the journal Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, scientists have found that middle-aged and older people in the UK who live near the sea, lakes or rivers – so-called ‘blue spaces’ – are less likely to suffer from Is. Age related mental decline. Tests of memory and reaction time showed they had a 13.2 percent lower risk of cognitive decline.
The test results of 35,669 men and women in the UK Biobank database were matched by home address and proximity to lakes, rivers or the sea and their memory, reaction time and verbal and numerical reasoning were measured. Air pollution exposure was calculated for each address.
More information
The researchers took into account a number of factors, from age, education and weight to diet, blood pressure and drinking habits. Researchers say the humid air around large expanses of water could limit air pollution that has previously been linked to age-related mental decline.
The effect was even more pronounced when air pollution was high. When particulate matter levels in the air were highest, a 10 percent increase in blue space within 300 meters of a home was associated with a 26.2 percent improvement in performance on cognitive tests.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
