Many musicians like The Ronettes and Johnnie Ray have crooned about walking in the rain, and for good reason: Taking a stroll on rainy days has a host of health benefits that soothe the mind, body and soul. If you think taking a walk in the rain sounds like a crazy idea, then check out these convincing reasons why walking in the rain is actually healthy and something you should try on the next drizzly day.
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8 Reasons Why You Should Take A Walk In The Rain
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- There are typically less people: Most people run for cover when it starts to rain, meaning it’s only the brave souls who continue strolling during a storm. If you crave peace and quiet during your walks, rainy days are the best. You're left alone with your thoughts and are able to destress much quicker and easier than when there are hundreds of other people out taking strolls.
- The air is scientifically proven to be cleaner and fresher: An MIT study published in the journal Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics showed that the air is truly cleaner during and after heavy rainfall. The reason is that as raindrops fall through the atmosphere, they have the ability to attract hundreds of particles of pollutants like dander, soot, sulfates and bacteria before hitting the ground. Proof that invigorating breaths of rainy air actually are better!
- The smell of rain has a calming effect: You’re not the only one who loves the scent of the air during rainfall. In fact, the distinct smell even has a name: Petrichor, which was coined by two Australian scientists in the 1960s. The scent, according to Live Science, is a mixture of chemicals released by soil-dwelling bacteria, oils released from plants during dry spells and ozone that is created when lightning splits oxygen and nitrogen molecules that then turn into nitric oxide.
- The humidity is good for your skin and health: High levels of humidity in the air help keep your skin fresh, young and supple. And some researchers believe that when humidity levels are 43% and higher, nearly 3/4 of airborne virus particles are left powerless.
- Rainy walks help with acceptance: Taking a walk in the rain often makes a person feel powerless. But taking rainy day walks on a regular basis help train your mind to give up control and go about life, no matter what the weather — or anything else — throws your way. Additionally, the temporary nature of rain can help some deal with personal loss and bad moments. Just like with a rain shower, everything has its moment and will eventually pass.
- Walks in rainy weather burn more calories: Believe it or not, Japanese researchers published a piece in the International Journal of Sports Medicine that proved when a person does physical activity in cold, rainy weather, he or she actually burns more calories and fat than doing the same activity in moderate weather.
- Walks in the rain help you see things with a different perspective: Whether it’s the darker lighting, the gloomy mood, or the reflection of streetlights in puddles, almost everything looks different on rainy days. This can perhaps help some people to view their life problems, challenges and other daily aspects in a different light.
- It feels rebellious: Sometimes you just want to break the rules, and taking a walk in the rain is a safe and healthy way to do so. Just be sure to wear proper temperature regulating gear and thoroughly dry off once you’re home so you don’t risk getting sick.
Quick Tips For Walking In The Rain
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It’s always thrilling to get caught in the rain unexpectedly, but your rain walks will be more comfortable if you prepare ahead of time. Here are a few quick tips to help you get the most from your walks in the rain:
- Grab an umbrella or wear a jacket with a hood to keep your head from getting wet.
- Wear waterproof shoes to avoid soggy feet that may begin to rub in your shoes and cause blisters.
- Opt for a rain jacket and maybe even rain pants if you’d like to stroll in the rain but want to avoid getting wet.
- Be sure to thoroughly dry off after your rain adventure and maybe even treat yourself to an ultra relaxing, warming foot soak.