The philosopher Alan Watts once wrote: "You didn't come into this world. You came out of it - like a wave out of the ocean. You are no stranger here." Perhaps it is because of this primal connection that we still carry within us. In any case, hardly any of us can escape the fascination of water. And sometimes we even feel a kind of magical enchantment when we go for a walk by the sea, paddle along river landscapes or watch a sunset by the lake. For good reason.

The connection between the brain and the ocean

We intuitively sense and know that we can relax by the water, recharge our batteries, let our thoughts flow and be inspired by nature. Marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols calls this deep connection between humans and water the "blue mind". The term stands for a gentle meditative state that is characterized by serenity, stillness, unity and a feeling of general happiness and contentment . Nichols has analyzed numerous studies and found out why we react so positively to water. According to his research findings, it is due to neurological patterns and preferences in the brain that have formed over thousands of years. The earth consists of 80 percent water - as does our brain. Both are complex structures that have harmonized with each other over the course of time. Our limbic system, which is responsible for emotional behavior in the brain, is now responsible for our feelings of happiness when we are near water.

The feeling of freedom on the coast

Seascapes are an ideal contrast to modern everyday life, in which we often feel constricted and rushed, trapped in routines and barely aware of our surroundings. When we are by the water, we breathe in the fresh surf air, observe the play of colors and the power of nature. We see and feel more intensely, living with all our senses again. Our gaze can wander as far as the horizon, we can only imagine the expanse of water and sky and feel a soothing sense of freedom that lies dormant within us. At the same time, the gentle sound of the waves is more relaxing than any meditation music. It comes very close to a calm breathing rhythm. We can join in and move to the same beat. Let's go ...

The exuberance of being a child

Being a child again and enjoying the moment without a care in the world - this also works best in an environment with water. When we shimmy across rivers and lakes, start a fun ass-bombing competition or simply build great sandcastles on the beach, we become brave explorers and can slip into the role of our heroes. We no longer think in terms of boundaries, but see many new possibilities - without fear of making a fool of ourselves. We can stretch all fours and simply let ourselves go: When exactly was the last time we dared to do that? On the water, life becomes a game full of surprises and joy. It's incredibly liberating. And makes you sooo happy.

The movement that becomes harmony

People all over the world say blue is their favorite color. No wonder: the light wave spectrum of the blue ocean color has a calming and stress-reducing effect, but also provides new energy. Emotionally, we associate blue with trust, confidence, reliability and strength. When we look at the water, we feel safe and at one with the world. We see how everything flows, how everything is change and movement - and yet how everything follows logical patterns and regulated paths. Water is full of life. And water is even more: pure harmony.

All of this is water

Lucky charm

Surfaces of water have a positive effect on body and soul - because they promote sporting activities, alleviate stress and brighten the mood. Often, just looking at a lake, river or the sea is enough for our body to release numerous happiness hormones. So let's treat ourselves to a relaxing break at a babbling brook or small pond in the immediate vicinity from time to time. It feels so good!

Therapist

Water strengthens our health. Studies show that swimming, therapeutic baths at different temperatures and other forms of exercise in water can, for example, lower blood pressure, reduce fatigue and relieve pain. At the same time, we feel almost weightless in the refreshing water and can relieve tension in an instant.

Point of attraction

We find landscapes with bodies of water particularly attractive in photos and pictures - regardless of whether the water is directly visible or can only be guessed at from the surroundings. Incidentally, property speculators like to take advantage of this effect: Properties near bodies of water sometimes cost almost 30 percent more than equivalent properties elsewhere.

Mindfulness

When we do water sports outdoors or in a swimming pool, we are not only being physically active and doing something for our health. At the same time, we enter into an exchange with the element of water, sharpen our senses and concentrate fully on the here and now. A real blessing in our often hectic everyday lives.

Motivation

New studies show that people who live no more than five kilometers from the sea feel mentally and physically healthier than those who live further inland. Researchers believe the reason for this is that coastal dwellers exercise more regularly in and around the water. Fresh air and fresh blue also ensure that the motivation to be active and get things done increases considerably.

A ray of hope

Other reasons why we like life by and with water so much: light is reflected more strongly by water than in other areas. This effect has a calming effect on us. In addition, the sound of the waves or gentle lapping has a relaxing effect. We then have the feeling that we are more immersed in the landscape and can really become one with it.