Just being near water can help boost mental health — even virtually.
It creates a sense of awe. Being around water gives us a sense of "something greater than ourselves,"
It provides soothing sensory experiences. The sound, smell and sight of a body of water can be very soothing
It facilitates mindfulness and reflection. "Water is dynamic. It has different colors. It's moving. And so your attention is on that rather than all the noise out there,"
If you're in an area that doesn't have a natural body of water around, that's OK. "Urban water counts," Azar said, and that includes rivers, canals and fountains, as well as pools and bathtubs.
You don't need to be physically there to get the benefits
Being in nature isn't a substitute for therapy or medication, of course. But it can be a surprisingly effective way to feel calmer.
