A visit to Taiwan's waterfalls could be next on your list as high levels of negative ions in the surrounding waters can have great health benefits. The top three areas for highest levels of negative ions are located in Wulai District, Sanxia District, and Pingtung County, according to Taiwan’s Forestry Bureau statistics.
Thanks to the frequent afternoon thunderstorms that took place in Nantou County this past week, the Songlong Rock Waterfall was transformed from a trickling stream into a majestic sight.
The waterfall is located in the Sun Link Sea Forest Recreation Area in the Zhushan Township of Nantou County. With an elevation of about 1600m above sea level, summer temperatures range from 16 to 22 degrees Celsius and provide a pleasant escape from the sweltering heat and humidity.
While enjoying the beautiful natural landscape and cool temperatures, one can also experience the waterfall effect caused by the presence of negative ions.
Released whenever water collides with itself, negative ions are oxygen atoms that have grabbed an extra electron creating the negative charge.
Studies indicate exposure to negative ions provide a number of positive health benefits. It increases the flow of oxygen to the brain resulting in higher alertness, decreased drowsiness, and more mental energy. It is also believed to help increase serotonin which helps alleviate depression and relieve stress.
According to statistics from the Taiwan Forestry Bureau, the top three national forest recreation areas of Taiwan with the highest amount of negative ions are located near waterfalls.
Ranking first is the Neidong Waterfall located in Wulai District. Coming in second is the Chunu Waterfall in Sanxia District. Third is the Shuangliu Waterfall in Pingtung County.
The negative ions measured at the Songlong Rock Waterfall show a 19.6 reading.
The heavy rains have also nourished the land and created a better habitat for the Black Winged Firefly in Sun Link Sea Forest Recreation Area. In the evenings, one can see the trails and forest transformed into a sparkling display of lights with more than 10,000 fireflies flying about letting people enjoy a natural light show in the land and skies.