ode to the ocean
In the last two years, I have experienced hardships, heartbreak and the passing of loved ones. The ocean was, and still is a place I go to heal. Whether this is sitting on a sand dune for half an hour and staring at the waves, swimming in the water almost daily, or walking on the beach.
I can confidently say that living close to the ocean has had a profound effect on my well-being. Where we choose to spend our time matters.
Research has shown that water provides the most profound shortcut to happiness.
"I need the sea because it teaches me". — Pablo Neruda, poet.
Our individual happiness makes our relationships better, helps us be more creative, productive, and effective at work, gives us greater self-control and ability to cope, be cooperative, empathetic, and the list goes on.
The ocean called me, and I have been able to heal myself through art and the connection I feel to the water.
Aside from my own personal experiences, I have been delving into the science behind a wide range of factors as to how the ocean offers incredible benefits to our well-being. More so, understanding why the colour blue has had a profound effect on my mind and happiness.
Let me tell you what I've found to be fascinating.
Light is an electromagnetic wave. Colour is a function of the length of the wave in each packet of light that enters our eyes after it reflects and retracts off and through a variety of surfaces and substances.
Neurosurgeon Amir Vokshoor has said, "Due to its specific wavelength, the colour blue is known to exert a calming, relaxing yet energizing effect and thus stimulate a positive emotional response". These wavelengths release neurotransmitters thought to be connected to the effects of dopamine.
Vokshoor theorises that the reason blue produces such positive feelings is that humans evolved on a planet that is primarily shades of water and sky blue, alongside shades of green and earth tones.
These points couldn't be more true as I focus on getting off screens to spend time by the ocean, or in nature. It offers something I find hard to describe. It brings me perspective, acts as a mirror and allows my mind to be still. It reminds me of the deep connection we as humans have to the earth, and ourselves as a whole.
Water evokes happiness, connection, growth, self-worth, reflection and memories. I try to channel these feelings into my practice, written and painted.
I’ve collated some prompts for when you visit the ocean next —
Sit on the sand.
Take your shoes off.
Put your phone out of sight.
Use 3 words to describe the ocean.
What’s happening in front of you?
Take note of how you felt before you sat on the sand.
What is one reflection you’ve taken away from this visit?