Rain is beneficial and can boost people's mood, according to scientists.

This is fortunate given that Britain experiences 159 days of rainfall annually - with Wales seeing 173 days.

Rather than seeking shelter during a downpour, individuals should embrace the rain, reports the Daily Star.

Researchers have found that walking in or after the rain can positively affect both physical and mental health.

Dr Niek Buurma from Cardiff University's School of Chemistry explained that negative ions are created when raindrops hit the ground.

"When water droplets collide with a hard surface, they break apart. During this process, the smaller droplets acquire a charge," he said

"This charge, if negative, carries extra electrons. These additional electrons can be absorbed by air molecules like oxygen and carbon dioxide, leading to the formation of negative ions."

Studies are ongoing into the effects of negative ions, but it is believed they can enhance mood, reduce stress, and increase energy levels.

Interestingly, they could potentially be used to treat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which many attribute to poor weather conditions.

Dr Buurma stated: "There are quite a lot of scientific studies that suggest that inhaling these negative ions has a positive effect on your health."

"Nobody really knows exactly why that happens. But there are clear indications that people feel more positive after inhaling negative ions."

Negative ions, often found in waterfalls, sea waves and morning dew, are also released after rainfall. This is because the raindrops cleanse the atmosphere of dirty particles, resulting in cleaner air.

The process also gives rise to a unique earthy aroma known as 'petrichor', derived from the Greek words 'petra' meaning stone and 'ichor' signifying 'the fluid that flows in the veins of the gods'. Breathing in this scent can induce a sense of calm.

Karen Clarke, a representative from Natural Resources Wales, encourages Brits to venture outdoors as soon as it starts raining.

"It doesn't have to be walking - it can be a bike ride, a run, but it could just be an amble around your local area,'' she said.

"You've got the sound, the sensation of it hitting your face. It's very relaxing."

"It's really important...whether you're 18 months, 18-years-old or 80, that you get out into your natural environment.''