With the recent rains and snowmelt, the Mascoma River was fierce and energizing yesterday. It was not just the roar of the river . . . the air felt different . . . exciting! Thanks to Google, we find that air around waterfalls carries negative ions, which some call “air vitamins”. The splashing of falling water charges the surrounding air with electricity. On impact, some water molecules are wrenched apart and the negatively charged electrons that had held the atoms together are released, only to be snatched up by oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide, components of the surrounding air. These now become negatively charged, and paradoxically, negative ions have a positive effect. Inhaling, delivers them into our bloodstream where they can cause biochemical reactions that increase serotonin levels. Serotonin is a natural mood-influencing chemical that helps reduce the effects of depression, relieves stress, and boosts energy.
If the current chaos of our world is getting you down, head to the MRG, pick up some negative air ions . . . oh, and check out the snowdrops in the Pocket Park by the tunnel!
The Mascoma River Greenway 
AS A CHRONIC DEPRESSION SUFFERER WALKING ESPECIALLY ON RAILTRAIL IS MY SALVATION
Glad to hear it Philip! “Air vitamins”. natural beauty, and sometimes the camraderie of other folks out there enjoying themselves – all have potential to lift our spirits. We are so fortunate to have these railtrails for exercise, fun, and re-creation.
I feel better just reading this.
Glad to hear that, Bart . . .but it is probably not incidental that you are always picking up “air vitamins” as you ride your bike everywhere!