The Evolutionary Reason Why We Love Sitting By A Crackling Fire

Relaxing in front of a crackling fire is one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a cold winter evening. And now scientists know why. Watching a fire lowers blood pressure, according to new University of Alabama research. Our enjoyment of gazing at fire may be rooted in evolution, as the act of gathering around a fire dates back to prehistoric times.
The researchers found an average of a 5% decrease in blood pressure among participants who watched the fire with sound. The longer they watched the fire, the more relaxed they became.