Blue Mind

July 22, 2014

Destination: Santa Monica Library - Main Branch

Cost: $2.00 for parking plus gas

I’m back from hiatus after a death in the family and ready to return to my explorations of Southern California.

Tonight I made my way to the Santa Monica Library, located at the corner of 6^th and Santa Monica Boulevard, just a few blocks from the Promenade. This evening’s program featured a reading by Wallace J. Nichols,PHD, from his new work Blue Mind. This book explores the effect of water on our brains – and talks about “the exciting science that shows how being in, on, or under water can make you happier, healthier, more connected and better at what you do.”

“J.” purposely designed an unconventional book talk. He floated balloons through the audience, introduced his kids (who had just come from swimming at the beach), and spoke about the difference between “red mind” – the anxious condition we find ourselves in as we scurry through modern life – and the meditative “blue mind” state that comes when we interact with water. This was illustrated by readings about his experience in a flotation tank in the Santa Cruz mountains, the successful treatment of PTSD victims through surfing lessons, and reminiscences about his first experiences with water (and through audience interaction – ours as well).

This talk was especially poignant as I reflected on how I coped with the extreme stress that comes with caring for a dying parent. In the final weeks, when I felt emotionally drained, I would often retreat to the backyard pool and float on an air mattress in an attempt to restore equilibrium. It helped.  

This attractive library has a loaded event schedule, a café that’s open late, reasonably priced underground parking and a very large collection of current magazines and new works. It’s been added to my list of cool places to hang out.