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When it pours, most people brace themselves for longer commutes. Traffic slows to a crawl and people walk slower to avoid slipping and falling. The cool weather brings respite to the uncomfortable heat, but to many, it's also an inconvenience. I, on the other hand, find rain romantic. And not just any rain, but the type that falls steadily for hours on end. It can't be too heavy, because thunderstorms can seem violent. It can't be too light either, because that's annoying. How many times have we sweltered on hot days, wishing for the skies to open, only to receive a mild drizzle that you can't even feel, or a mere five-minute downpour that only serves to release heat stored in the ground? Image: Kofa Boyah, Unsplash Constant drops Steady downpours are romantic because they set a particular mood. The sound of drops hitting our environment is soothing - there are countless 'rain ASMR' videos on YouTube if you have trouble falling asleep. I feel that rain has a cinematic quality. The skies are grey, and the world moves slower. If it's been raining for several days, the temperatures drop putting us in a chill mood. It is in this context that I find rain conducive to romance. If we need to go out, the missus and I can share an umbrella. I feel chivalrous, ensuring that it's me, not her, who gets wet. I watch for large puddles or potentially slippery surfaces (smooth concrete and foliage on the ground are particularly dangerous). Huddled under an umbrella, the patter of raindrops becomes background music. We don't need to canoodle or whisper sweet nothings. Chatting about our day is fine. Silence is okay as well. Rainy days mean lazy weekends, perhaps sharing a blanket on the couch. There have been many times when we did that cliche couple thing - one of us reads, the other streams their favourite show. Talk is minimal; we just enjoy each other's presence. Image: Jonathan J. Castellon, Unsplash Let your mind wander Admittedly, finding romance in rainy weather can sound whimsical and to some, unrealistic. But what's the point of romance if it can't have a dreamy quality to it? Perhaps this is why unplanned dates are just as sweet as meticulously organised ones, which are also stressful. A casual trip to your favourite cafe is just as meaningful as a dinner at an expensive restaurant. The company matters more than the food. And if the activity is accompanied by cool weather, grey skies and the constant patter of raindrops, so much the better. – Jeremy (Main image: Abishek Tewari, Unsplash)

Singapore can be that predictably unpredictable equatorial city, where the skies shift from radiant sunshine to torrential downpour in mere moments. Given how things have been the past few weeks, I’ve subconsciously found myself pondering the impact of this mercurial weather on our health. What does the internet say: Is it the sun-drenched days that truly invigorate us, or do the rhythmic rains offer a more profound rejuvenation? In a city where the climate dances between these two extremes, understanding the health implications of different sorts of weather can be an enlightening endeavour. What does "rainy weather" mean for your health? Of course, how each of our bodies reacts to the weather can vary greatly. Multiple factors often come into play, with our prevailing health conditions being the most significant. Still, to start on one end with the impact of rainy weather, here’s what some sources on the internet indicate. Joint and muscle impact: Rainy weather can apparently be a double-edged sword when it comes to joint health. The drop in barometric pressure preceding a storm often leads to swelling and stiffness in the joints, which can exacerbate conditions like arthritis. This shift in pressure and accompanying dampness may cause increased muscle pain, as the body conserves heat, especially in cooler, rainy climates source. Allergies, respiratory concerns, and general dampness: The increased rainfall contributes to higher humidity, which has been associated with the spread of infectious diseases like dengue and influenza according to studies. Rainy weather could also create ideal conditions for mould growth, potentially triggering sneezing, congestion, and coughs amongst allergy sufferers. Furthermore, thunderstorms can aggravate asthma, as high winds carry pollen into the airways, causing respiratory discomfort source. Mood and Mental Health: This one’s a bit of a stretch – a symptom that’s not likely to apply to us in Singapore, but still worth considering. On the emotional front, the overcast skies associated with rainy days could lead to a dip in mood for some individuals. While some people may find comfort in the cosy ambience of a rainy day, others may experience low-arousal emotions like sadness. This phenomenon is frequently linked to lowered serotonin levels, which can manifest as symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or depression, particularly during extended gloomy periods. Of course, it’s unlikely for SAD to really have a grip on most people here, given our tropical climate - but if you find the gloominess of the weather suddenly being mirrored by your mood, you’re not acting up. The Dual Nature of Rainy Weather Yet, the story does not end there. Rainy weather also releases negative ions, which are believed to boost mood and energy levels as mentioned by the BBC. These ions, combined with the rhythmic sound of rainfall, can create a soothing atmosphere, potentially reducing stress and anxiety. The cooler temperatures during rain can also provide relief from the heat, reducing the risk of heat-related stress, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly. And besides, if you do regularly find that a grey sky dampens your mood, practical strategies can help manage the rainy weather blues. Embracing natural light when possible, engaging in indoor physical activities, and connecting with others, are effective ways to combat the gloominess as suggested by Change Mental Health. By balancing these effects, Singapore's weather, whether rainy or sunny, can be managed for healthier living. For those inclined to feel blue under overcast skies, there are strategies to alleviate the mood disruptions caused by Singapore weather. Engaging in indoor activities and exercises can release endorphins, serving as a natural counterbalance to the blues Changemh. Additionally, connecting with others and practicing mindfulness can provide a buffer against the mental toll of persistent rainy spells. Sunny Weather: Is It Better for Your Health Compared to Rainy Weather? Given what the research states about rainy weather, it would make sense that sunshine functions as a positive counter-force to some of its negative effects For instance, sunny weather is often credited for elevating mood and energy levels. Exposure to sunlight increases serotonin production, a neurotransmitter linked to feelings of happiness and well-being. This can lead to improved mood and lower suicide risk, making sunny days emotionally beneficial for many according to Healthline. Sunny weather in Singapore promotes the production of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and immune function. Nevertheless, excessive exposure to the sun's rays can lead to heat stress and increased risk of skin cancer as noted in various climate studies. Striking a balance in sun exposure is crucial for maintaining good health. Sunlight exposure can also contribute to lower blood pressure by causing blood vessels to dilate, a process aided by decreased atmospheric pressure. This natural effect can provide cardiovascular benefits and potentially reduce the risk of heart-related issues as noted on Weather.com. Yet: The dual nature of sunny weather However, sunny weather can also exacerbate conditions like asthma and allergies due to increased pollen and air pollution levels. There's also the real reality that the UV rays from the harsh sun can be damaging to our skin if we are subject to prolonged exposure. On a general wellness level, warm weather can also pose multiple health problems: Headaches, and heat rash and eczema, and even kidney failure resulting from heat stress and chronic dehydration. Speaking of heat stress, the health risks associated with heat exhaustion can even be fatal for some. Appreciating both sides In contemplating whether rainy or sunny weather reigns supreme for our well-being, each side has revealed itself to offer both unique benefits that cater to different facets of health, but also possibly grave effects on our wellbeing if not mitigated appropriately. Yet despite the potential dangers that come with each, focusing on the positives ultimately feels more like a more uplifting proposition. The vibrant energy of sunny days can fuels our spirits and encourages active lifestyles, while the serene embrace of rain provides a pause for reflection and rejuvenation. Ultimately, the rich tapestry of Singapore's climate invites us to embrace balance, finding harmony in the interplay of the sun and rain.