Last year, one of my New Year's resolutions was to visit the beach at least twice a month. I wanted to set a weekly goal, but I opted for a more manageable target. I love the beach, and the beauty of living in the Caribbean is that it is easier to access. The climate is also warm year-round, making swimming and enjoying swimsuit-clad beach days a delightful possibility.
While I went to the beach often last year, it wasn’t consistent, and there were months when I didn't make it at all. Determined to do better this year, I've retained the resolution on my list. Access to the beach is different in Trinidad vs Tobago as depending on where you live in Trinidad, a swimming beach isn’t around the corner like it is in Tobago. But for me, the drive is less than 30 minutes to one of the more popular beaches in my area, so there is no excuse. A midweek beach getaway for reading and relaxation should certainly be penciled into my schedule regularly!
The sound of the waves
The allure of beach days resonates with many, with studies highlighting the therapeutic effects of everything from the water's hue to the gentle sea breeze. Personally, I find solace in the symphony of the waves—a soundtrack that soothes the soul. I could sit and listen to waves all day. But you do not have to be focused on the sound for it to work. Without being conscious of the sound of the waves, it is healing your system in the background!
Sound has a restorative power, and many meditations and videos online showcase sound as a tool for relaxation and healing. Whether it's drumming, singing bowls, solfeggio frequencies, chanting, or the sounds of nature, there is a therapeutic quality of sound that many people utilize in their healing practices. So, what makes the rhythmic ebb and flow of waves particularly therapeutic? It has the ability to calm the mind by activating the parasympathetic nervous system—a key element in inducing relaxation and engagement.
You didn’t need to convince me before to get to the beach, but I think now, I should change the label on my calendar from “Beach lime” to “Healing Session”. Lol. The accompanying video showcases a few images from my trips to the beach so far for the year! I hope this serves as a reminder to get to the beach more often or immerse yourself in an ocean wave meditation once a week! Here’s to many Healing Sessions for all of us this year!