Rainy With A Chance of Joy

“Let's just sit quietly and listen to the secrets the rain wants to tell us.”
― John Mark Green

There are several things I associate with rain—enjoying the day with family, the craving for pakoras, samosas, and chai, listening to old Bollywood songs, and, most importantly, calm. Living in Karachi, Pakistan, I can confidently say that this is the case for most Karachiites as we experience our monsoon rains after the relentless heat.

As it turns out, there might be more than just the heat encouraging people to enjoy the rain. Rain may have a positive impact on people with depression and anxiety. While it’s not a cure, it may help in relieving symptoms of anxiety and depression.

According to anxiety and depression specialist and therapist Kimberly Hershenson, rain produces a sound similar to white noise. Researchers refer to this sound as ‘pink noise,’ which engages the subconscious mind but does not distract. This is why the rain may help you get your mind off things & truly live in the moment. Moreover, Emily Mendez, MS, EdS, says, “Rain has a regular, predictable pattern. Our brain processes it as a calming, non-threatening noise. This is why there are so many relaxation and meditation videos that feature the sound of rain.”

The regular pitter-patter of rain certainly is soothing. The aroma of the soil as rain pours down feels cozy and safe—familiar. The sudden shift in temperature from scorching to cool is relieving. If I’m fortunate, I get to spend time in the downpour with my family over a hot cup of chai and banter. For someone with high-functioning anxiety like me, it finally feels good to relax and take things slow. To truly live in the moment without worry. To enjoy moments with family.

And if I feel like it, I might even go out and feel the rain pouring down on my skin and be grateful. After all, it’s a blessing of Mother Nature—one of the reasons why there is life. This is why we celebrate Rain Day on the 29th of July each year—to be grateful for this wonderful blessing with its life-giving power.

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