“We are beginning to learn that our brains are hardwired to react positively to water and that being near it can calm and connect us, increase innovation and insight, and even heal what’s broken,” Nichols writes in 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, published in July. “We have a ‘blue mind’ — and it’s perfectly tailored to make us happy in all sorts of ways that go way beyond relaxing in the surf, listening to the murmur of a stream, or floating quietly in a pool.”

Many of us living in the Beach Cities of the South Bay take for granted how close we are to the ocean.  We hustle and bustle right by it without taking the time to really connect to it.  But there is something magical, powerful and healing about the ocean.  Science is backing that up.  That calmness and clarity that you feel when you spend time by the ocean is not imagined.  It’s real. Our brains are changed for the better when we spend time by the water. 

While I do appreciate my office and spend many sessions inside it, I love having the opportunity to take my clients to the ocean for sessions.  My office is across the street from it which makes it easy.  It started as Walk & Talk sessions and while I do think walking can be powerful therapeutically, even sitting by the ocean is a powerful experience and one that I am grateful to be able to share with my clients.  

Here’s an article with more about the science of how the ocean heals: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2016/02/25/mental-benefits-water_n_5791024.html

Check it out or better yet, get outside and see for yourself.  

The Team Behind the Message:

At Beach Cities Psychotherapy, our team of dedicated therapists truly care about your well-being. We are passionate about sharing valuable information to support and guide you on your journey. Whether you’re facing life’s challenges or seeking personal growth, our team is here to ensure you receive the compassionate care and support you deserve. We’re committed to helping you navigate through your concerns and are always here to take care of you every step of the way.

 

More From Us:

Adulting and the Struggle to Launch

Adulting and the Struggle to Launch

College is over. We expect the career we have dreamed of to open up and present itself. This was the promise, right? Do the work, get good grades, go to college and it will all be okay. And then it’s not. It’s painful. And disappointing. And frustrating. And why was...

read more
Burnout and Secondary Trauma: When Caring Hurts

Burnout and Secondary Trauma: When Caring Hurts

Trauma is a slippery friend. Sometimes, it’s clear and easy to recognize. And sometimes, we don’t realize that the symptoms we are experience are symptoms of trauma at all. When people feel “burnout,” they are often struggling with secondary trauma and the compassion...

read more