Beach Therapy

Is it the feel of the ocean breeze, and the sea air? Is it the light on the water, even on a cloudy day? Is it the sounds of the waves and their rhythm? Is it the calls of the seagulls, the diving pelicans, the occasional visit by dolphins?

For me, it's the combination of all these sensations that makes a solo visit to a quiet beach so refreshing. It's my beach therapy. Sit and watch the shifting sunlight in the changing clouds, the rippling water. Calm my breathing, quietly getting in sync with the waves' rhythms. Breathe in the ocean breezes, listen to the seagulls, feel the sand on my feet, between my toes. Something for all the senses, a calming meditation. Even if it's just for a few minutes, you can leave the troubles of the world behind, enjoy being in the present moment, soaking in the beauties of nature, to breathe deeply, relax and recharge, before returning to life's routines.

I'm lucky, I live near enough to an ocean to enjoy occasional beach therapy sessions. When I haven't been near the ocean, I found that looking out on a lake or a river works, too. Even without the large ocean waves, watching the ripples in the water can have a relaxing, calming influence. For some people, being up in a mountain or standing amongst the trees in a forest is their favorite place for quiet contemplation, or a calming meditation. For me, it's sitting in the sand on a quiet beach, watching the ocean. Not always easy to find a spot like this, but worth it every time. I highly recommend a little Beach Therapy, whenever you can find it.