Why looking at water makes us feel good

At the seaside or in the mountains. Among the rocks or along a river or lakeshore. Looking at water makes us feel good, increases our physical and mental well-being, and instills serenity. But what are the causes of the many health benefits associated with a simple glance? Where does what experts call the "blue effect" of water come from?

Index of topics

Blue effect

The movement of water, from the waves of the sea to the flow of rivers, under normal environmental conditions is regular, almost repetitive. Added to this is the fascination we naturally feel when faced with natural spectacles somehow connected to water. The combination of the two aspects, somewhere between artistic imagery and psychology, leads to the "blue effect": we feel calmer, more relaxed, and inspired by contemplation.

The mind near the water

The proximity of water induces the production of chemicals that bring positive emotions, such as serenity, excitement, and peace. When we see the vastness of the sea, even in the distance, and gaze toward the horizon, our brain produces molecules of well-being.

Let's become calmer

One of the most comprehensive field studies on the calmness induced by viewing water dates back to 1984, when it was published in Environmental Psychology . Scientists examined the moods of hospitalized patients and discovered that those who viewed water were less stressed and recovered more quickly. A study from the University of Exeter reached a similar conclusion: using magnetic resonance imaging to monitor the brain activity of people who were intently gazing at the sea, rather than at cityscapes, they discovered that these cityscapes activated the areas of the brain associated with calm.

The color of the sea and the sleep-wake cycle

The color of the sea often matches various shades of blue. Exposure to the electromagnetic waves that produce the color blue helps stabilize, at any age, the hormonal cycle and sleep-wake rhythm, even helping us sleep better. This is known as the "blue mind," a psychological state similar to meditation, with a pervasive sense of calm , serenity, harmony, and inner peace.

The sounds of the waves

Alongside the images are sounds. Especially in the case of the sea, such as waves, breakers, and the water crashing against rocks. A study in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that the sound of sea waves lowers levels of cortisol, the hormone linked to stress . Furthermore, those who spend more time walking on the beach, on the shores of a lake, or along the banks of a river experience lower blood pressure and improved mood compared to those who spend their days in the city.

Human relationships

Water stimulates human connections, social interactions, and wards off the risk of loneliness . It's a natural environment for sports (swimming, sailing, fishing, rowing, snorkeling, etc.), even in groups. It's also a place that encourages sharing, reminiscing, and pleasant, lighthearted conversation. All these water-related activities have the power to make us feel better.