You might find this interesting.

An ion is an atom or molecule that has gained or lost one or more electrons (electrons are negative charged). If it gains an extra electron, it becomes negatively charged (an anion). If it loses an electron, it becomes positively charged (a cation).  

When you are near the ocean, you are breathing in plenty of negative ions. These are charged particles that come off the moving water. Specifically, they are created when the physical force of breaking waves breaks apart water droplets and the electrons transfer into the air. The wind sweeps them ashore. One breathes them in and they enter the bloodstream via the lungs. Such is linked to more serotonin, or better mood.[1] Apparently they also clean the air of airborne allergens. Anecdotally, they reduce stress, anxiety, and increase feelings of vitality. The rhythmic sound of waves also renders the setting as “safe.” One’s breathing slows down. 

Looking at the empty, watery horizon is also another benefit. This is called “blue space” and it apparently lowers stress.[2] Prolly cuz it’s so pretty.

In addition, magnesium in the salt water absorbs into your skin. Magnesium is an essential mineral that calms people down. 

People in the past used to “prescribe” moving to the ocean to cure ailments. Perhaps scientists didn’t have names for these reasons, but they felt the reasons. John Keats, Percy and Mary Shelley, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Nikolai Gogol all went seaside to recover their health. 

While coastal air contains a high levels of negative air ions, the outdoors in general provides health. This is true whether you are in the mountains, the prairie, a desert, or a forest. We can all agree that living inside and under fluorescent lights is best limited. 

Forests are particularly beneficial due to BVOCs (Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds). These are airborne natural chemicals (such as terpenes) emitted by trees and plants. They reduce stress hormones and support the immune system. We breath them in.

Positive air ions naturally occur in the atmosphere and are considered neutral to negative for well-being. They are elevated by pollution, electronics, and storms. In high concentrations, they are associated with fatigue and headaches. 

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This is an excerpt from my book Miscellaneous Advice (2026)

[1] Liu, R., Lian, Z., Lan, L., Qian, X., Chen, K., Hou, K., & Li, X. (2017). Effects of negative oxygen ions on sleep quality. Procedia Engineering, 205, 2980–2986. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.proeng.2017.10.219.

[2] White, M. P., et al. (2023). Blue space and human health: A review of the literature. Journal of Environmental Psychology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvp.2023.102061.