MBNMS Blue Minute

We have all experienced that being near water — large or small, fresh or salt- brings joy, playfulness, and peace. Think about the number of significant life events celebrated on the shores of an ocean or a lake. The ocean's calm and clarity can inspire curiosity and creativity. This has been referred to as the Blue Mind. Blue Mind is the emotional and physical wellness benefits from being in or near healthy lakes, rivers, oceans and water. According to J. Nichols, who coined this term, the Blue Mind is a calm state of mind that occurs when you are looking at the sea or swimming in it. A Blue Mind counteracts the "Red Mind" dominated by stress and the "Gray Mind" characterized by lethargy and burnout. These ideas are backed by neuroscience research on the effects of water and sensation on the human brain. So if you are feeling anxious, stressed or unhappy, get into the Blue and get your Blue Mind.  The ocean takes care of us, let's return the favor.