Negative Ions, Positive Vibes: The natural boost your body craves

Walking barefoot along the beach, breathing in the salty air, and feeling the waves wash over your feet brings an unmistakable sense of calm and renewal. Somehow, our worries seem to fade with the tide. But what makes these simple experiences both relaxing and energizing?

The answer is multifaceted—sunlight, the rhythmic sound of the waves, and even something invisible in the air: negative ions, tiny particles that may hold surprising benefits for our wellbeing.

Negative ions are atoms or molecules that have an extra electron. Negative ions can be created by a variety of mechanisms but here is a summary:

Sunlight and lightning release electrons that attach to air particles, creating negatively charged ions. ¹
Moving water—from waterfalls, ocean waves, and rainstorms—produces negatively charged mist droplets. ¹
Plants release electrons during photosynthesis, forming negative ions that enrich the surrounding air. ¹

When we spend time in these environments, we’re surrounded by these beneficial ions. And while “negative” usually sounds bad, in this case, negative is a positive for our health.

Research over the past 80 to 100 years has looked at exposure to negative ions and its effect on improved mood, increased productivity, and lower depression scores, among other wellbeing factors.

Some studies suggest the following benefits: lower blood pressure, stronger immune function, and better red blood cell function, which supports healthier circulation.2

When our circulation improves, our cells receive more oxygen and nutrients—fuel for stable energy and vitality. After all, our cellular health truly reflects our overall health.

A comprehensive review of 33 studies conducted between 1957 and 2012 found that negative ion exposure was significantly associated with lower depression ratings —especially at higher concentrations among individuals with seasonal or chronic depression. ³

This tracks with a multitude of studies that have “found evidence for associations between exposure to nature and improved cognitive function, brain activity, blood pressure, mental health, physical activity, and sleep.”4

While results for negative ions across studies vary, the pattern is clear: spending time in nature—where negative ions are abundant—benefits both mind and body. Even when we can’t fully explain it, creation speaks to our souls in ways that restore balance, calm our nervous system, and renew our energy.

You don’t need daily beach trips to reap the benefits. Simply spending time outdoors increases your exposure to negative ions:

Forest air: 900–5,000 ions/cm2
Waterfalls and streams: up to 10,000 ions/cm2
Compared to Urban traffic areas: only 200–300 ions/cm2

So, whether it’s a quiet walk in the park, relaxing on your patio, or a day by the ocean, stepping outside helps your body reset—lowering stress, lifting mood, and helping your cells thrive. Every breath of fresh air counts!

Tera Moorehead is the owner of Peace of Health, LLC. With dual master’s degrees in nutrition and education, as well as a national board-certified health and wellness coach, Tera shares her passion for health and wellness through various programs and services.

Let’s Work Together

Get in touch so we can start working together.