Blue Mind
A decade ago, I had the deep privilege to be invited by Dr. Wallace J. Nichols (J) to present research and connect with other researchers at a select conference all about the Blue Mind. I dipped my toes into the beautiful world of ocean explorers, athletes, veterans, artists and so many diverse individuals who thought about the ocean in different ways. And my neuroscientific brain lit up with the kinds of real connections that could be made between cutting edge research and daily activities. J was a mastermind at connecting us and thinking about how we all fit together. And from it, he wove together our stories and research into a book.
As the summer heats up, I’m rereading some of my own research as it connects with water. J referred to my research several times in his book: Blue Mind: The Surprising science that shows how being near, in, on, or under water can make you happier, healthier, more connected, and better at what you do. I highly recommend it for your summer reading!
I’ll come back to these thoughts more soon. After all, as anyone who’s hiked with me knows, I am “Super Hydration Queen”. I love to be in, on, under, or near water… and always have water on hand for drinking!!
Just a few brief thoughts from my research as it connects with J and his wonderful network of people:
The environment can deeply affect how you behave.
When you ramp up, are you stimulated/excited or frustrated/edgy?
When you wind down, are you deeply connected/at peace or disconnected/avoiding?
As you consider your summer and holiday time, I challenge you to vacation mindfully. Do things that give you a thrill, not make you upset. And when you relax, be at peace and connected rather than in avoidance mode.
And of course… connect with the water!
I offer special events for many groups to provide entertaining education at the intersection of science and daily life. Mindful lessons from the water is just one topic we might hit from my seasonal neuroscience collection! Contact me for a free conversation about how I could serve as a unique keynote speaker at your next event.
