Still Standing


Stand-up paddle boarding in Huatulco, Mexico.
This beautiful writing and photos by Maureen McIntosh.


Dance with the waves, move with the sea. 
Let the rhythm of the water set your soul free.
~ Christy Ann Martine

Looking down into the depths from my paddle board is still such a thrill. Having kayaked for many years prior, standing on the water provided such a unique and spectacular perspective. I couldn’t get enough and wanted to paddle on every lake. Soon I expanded my explorations to the ocean and was in awe of this new and strange world. First time out, a spotted eagle ray glided under my board, and I was hooked! Standing over a deep crevice showcasing a brilliant wall of purple and blue coral or following a sea turtle as it explores the ocean floor is nothing short of spellbinding.

On the ocean, I was shaky and uncertain at first. Gradually, I felt more rooted to the board and at one with the waves -- immersed in the pleasure of physicality and the beauty of nature. There is a freedom that comes with being able to slip easily off the board and into the refreshing water whenever the urge arises. In the bays of Huatulco, Mexico, I often slide off the board and swim for extended periods delighted with the clear coolness of the water, lulled into a meditative state as I reach into each stroke. I'm drawn to National Parks where the water and surrounding habitat is protected. If you’re like me, you know intuitively when water is healthy and alive, or when it’s not. Healthy water feels nourishing to the body, mind, and soul. It’s as if the water miraculously washes our troubles away.* Once washed clean, our true nature emerges and we experience a oneness with our surroundings, a feeling of being home and infinitely content.

Whatever we lose (like a you or a me) its always ourselves we find in the sea. 
~  ee cummings

* It turns out this feeling is grounded in science. In his book, Blue Mind, Dr Wallace J. Nichols reveals how being near, in, on, or under water can make you happier, healthier, more connected, and better at what you do! 

Thank you to my dear friend, Maureen McIntosh. She truly delights and grounds herself in nature every chance she gets!

Photo by Maureen McIntosh, Saskatchewan Lake,  2021


 

Comments

  1. AnnetteSeptember 6, 2021 at 5:42 AM

    WOW paddle boarding in Mexico, the joy, the warmth, how lovely it all is. I love how you share your travels. It's all so exciting to be part of your journey :) Thank you.

    ReplyDelete

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