Whether you prefer an ocean, a lake, or a pond, studies have shown that spending time near water has a positive impact on our well-being. Some of the most poignant scenes in movies show a main character alone on a beach, staring out into the sea for answers. Cliche or not, there's something to the idea that bodies of water provide a special kind of calm. Think about your ideal vacation; might it include reading a book or sipping a cocktail with your toes in the sand? What is it about the view that makes people pay hefty price tags for waterfront real estate?

From lulling you toward a good night's sleep, to providing some much-needed clarity, learn more about your 'blue mind,' and why you might just need to find water to find happiness.

Why Being Near Water Really Does Make Us Happier

Happiness Posts is published by Darin M. Klemchuk founder of Klemchuk PLLC, an intellectual property law firm located in Dallas, Texas and co-founder of Engage Workspace for Lawyers, a coworking space for lawyers. He also publishes the Ideate (law) and Elevate (law firm culture) blogs. You can find more information about his law practice at his firm bio and also at his BioSite.