It uses the ocean and water sports as a medium to better the lives of those who live with neurological and physical disabilities and/or conditions. “A mildly meditative state characterised by calm, peace, unity, and a sense of general happiness and satisfaction with life in the moment.” Dr. Wallace J Nichols. Now, as nice as it is to be in, on and around natural forms of water, you don’t always have to be physically near it to experience the benefits it can hold. Water sports can be powerful enough to help people recover from addictions and conditions such as post-traumatic stress. In contrast to directed attention, involuntary attention occurs in an environment outside our usual habitat with enough familiarity that it poses no threat but which offers us enough interest to keep our brains engaged. How Does Therapy Work and How can it Help? Unlike a busy street, a body of water is largely the same from moment to moment. What is Blue Mind & Ocean Therapy? With summer soon upon us, it’s time to get to somewhere wet to feel better. Stress also lowers levels of serotonin and dopamine, making individuals feel drained and down. Thanks to water’s buoyancy, a 200-pound human body weighs only around 10 pounds in water. Skip to content. It is now thought by some that taking to the sea can have a significant effect on our health and overall wellbeing. These barriers can amplify stress levels and mean that simple tasks many of us take for granted, can prove extremely challenging. Being in or on the water, there is a constant changing of the sights, sounds, and smells around a person. The Ocean Relaxes Us. *Please note* I offer Telebehavioral Health services to people in the states of South Carolina & Hawai'i. It induces a state of relaxation and a meditative like state. Our cerebrospinal fluid buoys up our brain. This in turn can restore our ability to focus and perform cognitive and creative tasks with greater ease. Alongside representatives from The World Surf League (WSL), The Surf Industry Manufacturers Association (SIMA) and research experts from the University of Edinburgh and the University of New South Wales. In addition, we offer comprehensive psychological testing services. Blue Mind is a mental state that he believes exists in all of us, whether we are aware of it or not. The Crisis Text line offers free, 24/7 support from anywhere in the U.S. Nichols notes that people change their behavior less in reaction to data and more in response to storytelling. Different ones are in play when you’re paddling out or have a monster wave chasing you to the beach. Mind's new report Ecotherapy: the green agenda for mental health presents the findings of the first ever study looking at how green exercise specifically affects people with mental health problems. “A 2006 study found that spa bathing significantly reduced levels of salivary cortisol in college students. * Biographies of Each Veteran (Service, Transistion, Difficulties if any, Current Occupation(s) & What Force Blue Does For Them). Likewise, if and when the brain notices a change in the background such as a wave or sea life there is a sense of novelty accompanied by a hit of dopamine.”. Ocean Therapy is a relatively new but internationally recognised natural form of therapy. Blue calls to mind feelings of calmness or serenity. Filed Under: Blue Mind Blog, News. This can be found in the ancient Egyptian, Indian, and Roman civilizations. In a natural environment on or near water, there’s a high degree of predictability. NEWSFLASH: If you want to beat the blues, catch a wave: the rise of mindful surfing. They aim to develop a simple handbook that should help surf organisations structure programmes and measure impact. 3 talking about this. All of those chemicals can have incredible effects on how people cope with depression, anxiety, stress, and other mental-health issues.” Bryan Flores, who works with the Monterey County Mental Health Commission. You stand on the beach and get amped up, and all kinds of chemicals rush through the brain. "Blue Mind" is a fascinating study of the emotional, behavioral,psychological and physical connections that keep humans so enchantedwith water. Nichols is a a marine biologist and has studied sea turtles for more than two decades. The multiple stimuli impinging on us during a typical day can drive this state. Your body is a pharmacy; You can create in analogue from everything that is available from a pharmacist. He does cite multiple studies, however, in case you’re interested. In doing this it is hoped that each individual will leave feeling empowered, relaxed and confident in their abilities, transferring this into their everyday lives. Hydrotherapy has been shown to reduce psychological stress, while swimming releases endorphins, encourages deep breathing, and leads to a meditative-like state. The ‘always on’ lifestyle can eventually result in anxiety, depression, and memory problems. The newly formed Institute for Surf Therapy has made it their mission to find more answers around the benefits that our ocean holds, whilst working to develop simple tools that can help connect more people to the water. Such studies are continually finding that natural bodies of water can help to enhance nature’s healing qualities. We use the term “Blue Mind” to describe this state of water-associated peace. http://www.mauliola.org/about/our-mission. Nichols examines seas and oceans, lakes and rivers, evenswimming pools and the contents of our bathtubs in a study that … “The goal of surf therapy is not to teach people to be surfers. We hope the above research has given you some more insight into what we do and why we do it. In this kind of environment, small things randomly attract our attention, but only momentarily and usually require little focus or response. Nichols calls Red Mind the physiological state of arousal in the sympathetic nervous system. And hydrotherapy was shown to help reduce the psychological stress and physical symptoms of a group of 139 people with rheumatoid arthritis.” Wallace J Nichols 2015. Blue is often seen as a sign of stability and reliability. Yet all is essentially staying the same. A: The term “blue mind” describes the mildly meditative state we fall into when near, in, on or under water. This “Blue Mind Gathering” went on to conduct many experiments and tests to find the answers. ... Blue Cross/Blue Shield Provider 15 Years. It’s in contrast to “Red Mind,” which neuroscientist Catherine Franssen, PhD, describes as an “edgy high, characterized by stress, anxiety, fear, and maybe even a little bit of anger and despair.” The Institute comprises a global network of organisations using Surf Therapy to promote physical and mental well-being in differing social contexts. This is not hippy dippy stuff, this is neuroscience.” Wallace J Nichols 2017 Ramsey, New Jersey 07446, One Bridge Plaza North, Suite 275 This endeavour is going to save, improve and heal lives because waves are medicine for those who need them most. A walk in a country park was compared with a walk in an indoor shopping centre. But this is a state which when maintained chronically is detrimental to our health. Text HOME to 741741. Fort Lee, NJ 07024, 51 John F Kennedy (JFK) Parkway, I provide therapy for children, adolescents and adults in either individual or family sessions, as well as marital/relationship therapy. 865 Taylorsville Road (Hwy 55) Shelbyville, KY 40065. It is often described as peaceful, tranquil, secure, and orderly. Immersion in water reduces stress, partly by balancing the flux between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. Paramus, NJ 07652, 75 Essex Street, Suite 110 Dr Wallace J Nichols noted that water can help us access the state called ‘flow’ or ‘hyper focus’ where we connect to the default mode network, or daydreaming parts of our brain. Other studies have found that hot tubs and five-minute hot showers can measurably lower anxiety levels. In recent years scientific researchers have started to look carefully at the calming effect nature has on the human mind, with increased involvement from neuroscientists. Blue Mind: Water is Medicine by Dr. Nichols To see more videos from this series, please go here. The aim is to enable individuals, whatever their disabilities and/or conditions, to participate in a few hours of water sports, provide each of them the opportunity to have their own unique and valuable experience. Here at Blue Creek, we offer individual, couples, and family therapy, serving children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. In the Middle Ages places such as Baden-Baden and Evian preached the physical and mental benefits of drinking and bathing in local waters. For individuals living with neurological conditions and/or disabilities, day-to-day life poses numerous barriers both physical and mental. Thus clearly we want to reduce the amount of stress in our lives. Blue Mind, Wallace's Nichols' term for a calm, meditative mental state produced by being on, in or near water, is discussed in his book of the same name as an antidote to the ordinary stressed out state most people are in most of the time. You can pull state of the art dashboard reports that illustrate results in a compliant manner; tracking healthcare performance outcomes, trends, and where improvements can be made. Ecotherapy versus retail therapy. Through many different studies, it has been found that the ocean indeed does benefit our health. This group is continuing to share existing research and practical experience to define the various outcomes Surf Therapy organisations are seeing around the world. Healing in and on the water can happen by creating excitement in the brain. “‘Blue Mind’ is the term to describe water-associated peace, in contrast to ‘Red Mind’ which neuroscientist Catherine Franssen, PhD, describes as “edgy high, characterised by stress, anxiety, fear, and maybe even a little of anger and despair.”, Merzenich explains, “You can look at the ocean or water as a normalizing background. These times could include a family vacation down the shore. Not only this, but Ocean Therapy has been noted to relieve physical and psychological symptoms. 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 by Wallace J. Nichols Goodreads helps you keep track of books you want to read. But our brain stays 80 percent water. This reduces the brain’s effective weight from 1,400 grams to between 25 and 50 grams. PDT is also referred to as blue light therapy. “According to current research in cognitive neuroscience (which now echoes much historical wisdom), when you spend time around water, what happens is very good indeed.” Nichols, W 2015. 19 Spear Road, Suite 301 BlueSprig provides the highest standard in ABA therapy and treatment for children with Autism. These stimuli require us to maintain directed attention. In turn this can lead to a reliance on alcohol and drugs for relaxation or, in some extreme cases, suicide. We need this arousal on an immediate basis in survival situations. The Institute launched at a workshop in Cape Town on the 25th – 30th September 2017, joining together a founding eight surf organisations – Waves For Change, A Walk on Water, Kind Surf, Surfers Healing, the Jimmy Miller Memorial Foundation, the Wave Project, Wave by Wave and Waves of Wellness. As we age, that number shrinks to 60 percent. In this book Wallace Nichols tells us about the beneficial effects experienced by those who spend time in, on or near the water. The mind may be wrapped up in its own story, with a certain framework, and the body may be saying something very different. Current facts and figures highlight the amount of stress we all experience on a daily basis as individuals in modern society. Blue Mind Mental Health-Therapy and Mental Health Counseling Not only can it reduce our anxieties and stress helping us to find some perspective on life, but it is continually being proven more and more to ease symptoms and pain for some of our most vulnerable. September 24, 2018 by ISTO Staff. Such high levels of stress can have implications on one’s cardiovascular, immune, digestive, nervous, and musculoskeletal systems. We started this practice because we love what we do: helping people grow. * How the Force Blue Team is Restoring the Coral Reef in the Florida Keys From Coral Disease. The results are startling: Hackensack, NJ 07601, Email: Information@specializedtherapy.com, Copyright 2020 Specialized Therapy Associates | All Rights Reserved, Ask A Therapist: Question and Answers Survey. We’re water beings ourselves. 5703 Gulf Tech Drive Ocean Springs, MS 39564 info@bluebonnettherapy.com . Or maybe when you were fishing, surfing or canoeing. The Blue Mind theory was first popularized by marine biologist Dr. Wallace Nichols. In our opinion we think everyone can agree that it feels good to be in, on, under or simply around the water. Blue Mind is landmark best-selling book by marine biologist Dr. Wallace J. Nichols on the remarkable effects of water in all of its shapes and forms on our health and well-being. * How the Force Blue Team is Restoring the Coral Reef From the Damage of Hurricane Maria. Eat your Broccoli ! Hours: Mon-Wed 8 AM –5 PM Thurs 8AM – 7PM, Fri 8AM – 3PM (502) 437-0450 The ocean can provide a safe, consistent and supported environment which not only supports us, but also provides a hydrostatic pressure that surrounds our body. We bring decades of experience collectively and want to offer you a unique therapeutic experience from […] This can be to any or all of the seven senses: touch, taste, sight, sound, smell, vestibular and proprioception. A huge advantage of water is that you don’t need to meditate to realize its healing effects. Surf Therapy in The Telegraph. After viewing the video, patients experienced a 20 to 30 percent reduction in the stress hormones epinephrine and cortisol. We strongly recommend this book for further information on Blue Mind! There can be mild side effects … Blue Mind Network Water is medicine for those who need it most...and everyone else. “A mildly meditative state characterised by calm, peace, unity, and a sense of general happiness and satisfaction with life in the moment. Advocating the work of the Surf Therapy Institute is again our main man, ocean science specialist and author of international best seller ‘Blue Mind’ Dr Wallace J Nichols: “Ten years ago, for many it was unimaginable that doctors and medical professionals would prescribe surf therapy as an important part of a healing regime. Ten years from now it will be common. ... the author of Waves of Healing ~ Cash Lambert for Surfline in 2019 about the first-ever symposium dedicated to surf therapy research. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the top ten causes of death around the world are either caused or exacerbated by stress. Throughout the course of our existence, humans have been drawn to water and have actively immersed themselves in it. After devoting much of his career to sea turtle research and conservation, he has shifted his focus to the study of what he feels is a deep connection between humans and water especially blue water. In any case, be safe in the water this summer and let it have its healing effects on you. In 1997, 10 cancer patients who were experiencing chronic pain, watched a nature video that included 15 minutes of the sounds of ocean waves waterfalls, and splashing creeks. In our experience, being in, under, on, or around the water leaves you calmer, and with a more focused mindset. Individuals with Autism Spectrum Condition can often have significant sensory difficulties being both hyper and/or hypo sensitive, meaning over or under reactive to stimuli in their day-to-day environment. Second, there is an incubation period of minutes to days. By bringing together the best researchers with experienced practitioners in the sector. “‘Blue Mind’ is the term to describe water-associated peace, in contrast to ‘Red Mind’ which neuroscientist Catherine Franssen, PhD, describes as “edgy high, characterised by stress, anxiety, fear, and maybe even a little of anger and despair.” Our Brains on Water The brain’s desire for stimulation, novelty and a neurochemical rush is fulfilled in such water sports. It also means individuals are out of their usual environments, providing new settings, friends (connection) and routines that can be hugely beneficial to addicts, war veterans and everyone alike. Blue Minds LLC offers customized programs based on the individual characteristics and needs of each student. Occasionally, a photosensitizing molecule that is already part of the body can be activated. International Surf Therapy Organization Breaks Ground in Los Angeles. The marine biologist dubbed it our "blue mind," the mildly meditative state our brains enter when exposed to water. Life began in the sea. There are now studies attempting to scientifically prove what humans have known all along. Businesses that want to project an image of security often utilize blue in their advertising and marketing efforts. It can give your mind a break from the usual busyness and over stimulation of life and is the most natural form of respite. These can vary from but are not limited to: Low Muscle Tone, ASC, ADHD, Cystic Fibrosis and PTSD. 1st Floor Dr. Caruso has advice for Pandemic induced stress. We use assessment tools to help us determine the best intervention for your child. Blue KC members can talk with a Mindful Advocate by calling 833-302-MIND (6463), or the behavioral health number on the back of your member ID card. According to the blue mind theory, being in or on the water is just as powerful as watching it from a distance. We believe this is the case for everyone, whatever physical and neurological condition they may be living with. They support the growth of new projects and facilitate access to Surf Therapy programmes globally! Suite 146 ‘Surfers stoke’ has been described numerous times as, a blissful Zen-like state that comes with catching and riding waves. blue sky healing: biodynamic craniosacral therapy Even recorded sights and sounds of water have a healing and relaxing effect. Surfing, Kayaking, sailing or paddle boarding, produces a natural dopamine high that serves as a replacement of the effects drugs and alcohol hold on addicts. Initially, Nichols was apprehensive that … Shelbyville. BlueSky’s mental health services provide adult clients with daily individual therapy, group therapy, medication therapy, and specialty therapies for depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma, borderline personality disorder, and addiction. Or maybe during that relaxing bath you took once (hopefully many times more than once). So if you want to get yourself relaxed in or on the water this summer, think of times (your stories) when you enjoyed experiencing water in the past. “It’s a huge serge of dopamine, huge natural high. In addition, we begin our own lives with bodies composed of about 75 percent water. Blue Mind is his term for a “mildly meditative state characterized by calm, peacefulness, unity and a sense of general happiness and satisfaction with life in the moment.” Eighty percent of the world’s population lives within sixty miles of the coastline of an ocean, lake or river. It’s to get them to use surfing to change their brain chemistry. / Blue Mind. Fax: 228-875-5448 It gives us additional justification for protection and restoration of waterways and oceans, adding powerful new tools to the conservation and environmental communication toolbox.”. Centers in TX, OH, SC, OK, WA, OR, AZ, IL, KY, AK, MO : Why this Adage Holds True! Light therapy is similar to drug therapy in that the response depends on dose, timing of dose, and duration of use. Toxic Heavy Metals in Baby Food – What To Do. Phone: 888-410-1740. The background we see is fairly controlled, which allows the emotions centre of the brain to relax. The breath is the same. BluMine tracks visits, services provided, and medical outcomes without violating family or employee privacy. First, a light-sensitizing liquid, cream, or intravenous drug (photosensitizer) is applied or administered. This is not hippy dippy stuff, this is neuroscience.” Wallace J Nichols 2017. PDT essentially has three steps. Short Hills, NJ 07078, 4 Forest Avenue, It’s regularity without monotony. It is the hope of the Institute to advance the understanding of what Surf and Ocean Therapy can achieve, and improve the capacity of organisations worldwide to deliver impactful programmes; that can ultimately change lives. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free, 24/7, confidential support for people in distress. Water activities not only provide the ‘neuro typical’ with benefits, but also those with mental health conditions and Autism.