You likely love rain and thunderstorms because of the calming and even pleasurable sensory experience they provide. This is largely due to how these weather phenomena affect your brain.
Here's a breakdown:
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White Noise Effect: Rain produces a sound akin to white noise. As Kimberly Hershenson, a therapist, explains, "[t]he brain gets a tonic signal from white noise that decreases this need for sensory input, thus calming us down." This means the consistent, relatively uniform sound of rain effectively reduces the brain's need for constant stimulation from other sources, leading to a sense of relaxation.
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Sensory Satisfaction: Your brain naturally craves sensory input. The sounds, smells (especially the earthy scent of rain-soaked soil, known as petrichor), and even the visual spectacle of a thunderstorm can be deeply satisfying.
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Association with Comfort and Safety: Many people associate rainy days with staying indoors, cozy blankets, warm drinks, and a slower pace of life. These positive associations can contribute to feelings of comfort and well-being during rain and thunderstorms.
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Release of Tension: The dramatic nature of a thunderstorm, with its loud claps of thunder and flashes of lightning, can be cathartic for some. It can act as a release for pent-up tension or anxiety.
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Nostalgia: Rainy days or thunderstorms might be linked to positive childhood memories, further enhancing your positive feelings towards them.
In summary, your love for rain and thunderstorms is likely a combination of the calming effects of the "white noise" produced by the rain, the satisfying sensory input they provide, positive associations with comfort and safety, and potentially nostalgic connections to pleasant memories.
