You have probably experienced that being by the ocean can make you feel calm and there is actually evidence showing that incredible things happening to your body and brain when you are surrounded by water. For example, there is research showing that the ocean can help us reduce stress and feel happier. In fact, studies suggest that being around water can increase levels of “feel-good” brain chemicals like dopamine and lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Moreover, research also says that being by the ocean and the color blue help the brain to “mind wander”, which is great for creativity and problem solving. The color blue is also often associated with feelings of relaxation and peace, and looking at the ocean actually changes our brain waves’ frequency and puts us in to a mild form of meditative state. The noise and smell of the ocean also contribute to feeling calmer, and they actually activate our parasympathetic nervous system, which helps us to slow down. Another very interesting fact is that people’s relationship tend to deepen and we connect more with someone when we spend time by the water together. Also, people who live along coastlines tend to be healthier (both mentally and physically) and happier than people who don’t! Luckily enough, all forms of water actually helps to wind down, so taking a bath, going to a spa, or simply enjoying a shower can also make you feel more joyful and calm if you can’t access the big blue.