First published 2014
Water covers most of our planet and makes up three quarters of our bodies. We know instinctively that being near water makes us feel better, but scientists have only recently discovered why. Wallace J. Nichols examines cutting edge research in neuroscience, evolutionary biology, and medicine to explain our deep connection to water. Using tools like EEGs and MRIs, researchers have uncovered how water affects our brains and bodies. Nichols draws on breakthrough science and personal stories from athletes, scientists, veterans, and artists to show how proximity to water improves performance, increases calm, amplifies creativity, and enhances overall well being. The benefits extend beyond oceans and lakes to swimming pools, even fishbowls and photographs of water. This research reveals how water reduces stress better than medication, increases generosity and compassion, and strengthens our bonds with nature and each other.
Genres: science, neuroscience, non-fiction, health, biology, academic
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: non-fiction
352 pages · Hardcover · Little, Brown and Company