Metaphore MagazineLiving near water, whether it be the vast expanse of the ocean, a meandering river, or a tranquil lake, has long been associated with a sense of calm and well-being. Today, scientific research in both neuroscience and psychology has provided compelling evidence that proximity to water is not only beneficial to our physical health but also plays a pivotal role in enhancing our mental and emotional states. In particular, the so-called “Blue Mind” effect, as explained by marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols, sheds light on why living near water can contribute to a happier, healthier, and more creative life.
In late 2018, Marcos Rodriguez Sierra, a young man at the age of 29, made a life-changing decision. After a year of weekend escapes to the Atlantic coast, he decided to leave behind the bustling urban life of Buenos Aires for the serenity of Mar del Plata, a coastal city. This move was prompted by a desire to be closer to the ocean and to experience firsthand the therapeutic effects of living near the sea. For Marcos, the experience of immersing himself in the ocean every day became a transformative act of reconnecting with nature—a move that significantly altered both his emotional state and outlook on life.
The human connection to water is ancient and deep-rooted in history. From the Roman bathhouses and the sacred waters of the Ganges to the modern-day beach vacation and even the simple act of a refreshing shower, water has long been seen as a medium of purification and renewal. In modern society, where life is often fast-paced and stressful, water continues to provide respite, offering not only physical nourishment but also profound emotional healing.
In his bestseller Blue Mind: The Surprising Science That Shows How Being Near, In, On, or Under Water Can Make You Happier, Healthier, More Connected, and Better at What You Do (2014), Wallace J. Nichols introduces the concept of “Blue Mind” to describe the positive mental state induced by spending time in or around water. Through a combination of research and personal anecdotes, Nichols explores the science behind this phenomenon and explains how natural bodies of water—oceans, rivers, lakes, and even swimming pools—can significantly enhance mental clarity, boost creativity, and reduce stress.
The impact of water on our well-being has been studied from a variety of scientific perspectives. For Nichols, the concept of “Blue Mind” stands in stark contrast to “Red Mind,” a state characterized by chronic stress, overstimulation, and anxiety—conditions all too familiar in modern urban life. Over time, this stress accumulates, leading to feelings of fatigue, emotional disconnection, and diminished mental health. By contrast, “Blue Mind” represents a peaceful, balanced state where one feels grounded, focused, and at peace.
One of the primary theories behind our attraction to water is the concept of biophilia, first introduced by biologist Edward Wilson. Biophilia suggests that humans have an inherent affinity for nature due to our evolutionary history. Our ancestors, who lived near rivers, lakes, and oceans, were conditioned over millennia to associate these environments with safety and nourishment. This biological predisposition has not faded with time; instead, it remains embedded in our collective consciousness, explaining why we are instinctively drawn to water.
Further supporting this idea, Nichols points out that the human body itself is made up of about 70% water. As such, when we are near water, whether we hear the gentle waves lapping against the shore or simply gaze upon a serene lake, our brains receive signals that reassure us we are in the right place—our natural environment. These sensory cues from water induce a sense of calm and comfort, enhancing our overall mood and emotional state.
From a neurochemical standpoint, water’s effect on the brain is profound. Studies have shown that exposure to water—through activities such as swimming, simply sitting by the shore, or even listening to the sound of waves—can trigger the release of beneficial neurochemicals, including dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, all of which are linked to feelings of happiness, relaxation, and connection. Simultaneously, these interactions with water reduce the levels of cortisol, the hormone associated with stress. This physiological response is a key reason why spending time near water contributes to emotional and physical healing.
Research has also highlighted the specific health benefits of living close to water. For example, studies conducted by the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom found that individuals who reside within a kilometer of the coast report better mental health and lower levels of anxiety and depression. This phenomenon is not limited to coastal regions; the presence of rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water also correlates with improved well-being. These findings are supported by research from various institutions, including the University of Canterbury in New Zealand, which found that living near water is associated with greater emotional well-being and an increased sense of positivity.
Furthermore, water environments are known to facilitate a state of restorative attention, a concept introduced by psychologists Rachel and Stephen Kaplan. Their theory posits that natural settings, particularly those involving water, have a unique ability to capture our attention without effort, allowing the brain to rest and recover from mental fatigue. This recovery process is essential in reducing stress and enhancing cognitive function, which ultimately leads to better physical and emotional health.
The benefits of living near water extend beyond mental health to physical well-being. Studies, including those conducted by the BlueHealth project funded by the European Union, have shown that individuals who regularly engage with aquatic environments tend to have lower levels of chronic illnesses, including cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. They also exhibit higher levels of physical activity, a key factor in maintaining a healthy body. Additionally, the air near bodies of water is typically fresher and more humid, which can alleviate respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies.
Living near water has been shown to positively impact sleep patterns as well. The calming and soothing nature of water environments promotes relaxation, making it easier for individuals to fall asleep and enjoy a restful night. This reduction in anxiety and stress, facilitated by the presence of water, contributes to an overall improvement in quality of life.
Beyond the physiological and emotional benefits, water can also enhance our creativity and introspection. Nichols emphasizes that being near water can help quiet the constant noise of daily life, allowing us to reconnect with our inner thoughts and unlock our creative potential. Whether through the rhythmic sounds of waves crashing against the shore or the stillness of a peaceful lake, water has a unique ability to encourage reflection and inspire new ideas.
In a similar vein, water environments foster emotional connection and empathy. The tranquil and serene nature of water allows individuals to relax and open up, creating more meaningful relationships. Studies have found that spending time in nature, especially near water, promotes cooperative behaviors and emotional bonding, helping to strengthen both individual and collective well-being.
The benefits of living near water are vast and undeniable. Whether through its calming influence on the mind, its positive effects on physical health, or its ability to spark creativity and foster emotional connection, water remains one of the most potent resources for enhancing human well-being. As more research continues to emerge, it becomes increasingly clear that living close to water is not only a luxury but also a powerful investment in our happiness, health, and overall quality of life.
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Metaphore Magazine
Francesc Miralles
Carlos Mundy
Charles Markeaton-Mundy
