I almost didn’t go.

I’d booked onto a charity walk, but when I woke up that morning and saw it was raining and was due to rain all day, my enthusiasm evaporated. The warm, dry house felt far more appealing than trudging through puddles. But I’d committed, and something told me that a walk in the rain would be good for my mental wellbeing.

So I togged up in waterproof trousers, pulled on my waterproof jacket, grabbed my umbrella, and headed out. And I really enjoyed myself. Unexpectedly so.

Walking home afterwards I was in a positive mood. It was partly the effect of meeting people and making new connections but it felt like there was more to it than that. So I looked into what else might have happened

Rain’s hidden health benefits

It turns out my good mood wasn’t just from meeting new people. Walking in the rain, or just after rainfall, brings real health benefits.

Rain literally cleans the air around us, washing away fine particulate pollution so we are actually breathing cleaner air into our lungs. Rainfall also releases a compound from the soil called geosmin, which creates that distinctive earthy smell we associate with rain. Studies suggest it is linked with relaxation and increased serotonin levels that help you feel less stressed. So walking in the rain – or just after – can really boost your mental wellbeing.

And did you know that negative air ions are released after rainfall? Researchers have found that high levels of these ions are linked to improvements in mood, and might even boost our immune systems. 

Tips for walking in the rain

If you’re curious to try it yourself, here’s some tips from my own experience:

  • Get properly kitted out. This makes all the difference. Waterproof trousers might feel like overkill, but trust me you won’t mind how you look, you’ll be pleased you put them on. And a decent jacket with a hood that ties up to stop it blowing about is a good investment. Add an umbrella if it’s not too windy.
  • Start short. You don’t need to commit to hours outdoors. A 15 minute loop around your local area is enough to get the benefits.
  • Choose your timing. Just after rain has stopped can be ideal – you’ll benefit from the fresh air and those negative ions without getting soaked. But don’t be afraid of light rain either.
  • Notice the difference. Pay attention to how quiet it often is, how colours look richer, how few people are about. Notice what else is different for you.
  • Embrace the unexpected. Like me, you might surprise yourself. Stepping outside could refresh your tired brain and give you a real lift in your mood.

Rainy days can sometimes push us to spend time indoors but learning that there are genuine health benefits to walking in the rain gives us a reason to get out there rather than waiting for perfect weather.

The next time rain is forecast and you’re tempted to stay inside,  those grey skies might be offering you exactly what you need. Fresh air, clearer thoughts, and a virtuous feeling afterwards! Don’t under-rate that.

Sometimes the best experiences are the ones we almost talk ourselves out of.

Getting support

If you find yourself stuck in patterns of avoiding things that might be good for you, coaching can help. I work with people to explore what’s holding them back and support them in taking action to enhance their wellbeing and feel better about life.

Reach out for a free chat to see if I can help you live well.  It’s an opportunity to explore if coaching is right for you.

You can read these client reviews to see the impacts that working with me can have.

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Thanks for reading

Brenda