Still or Flowing?

Water covers more than 71% of the Earth and takes up more than half of our body’s percentage. It has a multitude of health benefits, mentally, physically and spiritually. Depending on your approach and your goal for the moment, water can ease and soothe or it can ignite and energize. Whether you’re using water to stay hydrated throughout your day, calm your nerves in meditation, or wash the day away, water tends to find a way of keeping us grounded. We asked Wellness Manager Meghan Henley to share her thoughts about the role that a connection to water can play in our wellness journey. Being mindful about your routine and considering something as simple as shower vs. bath introduces an approachable way to embrace the natural energy effects of water.

“Water can flood our minds, and in doing so, affects our emotions and actions. Moving water brings energy and more activity to the brain, causing stimulation for creative thoughts and allowing inspiration to strike. This can be seen for most in the shower. While you shower, thoughts pop into your mind – whether it’s a task that fell through the cracks of your day or an idea that will solve a hurdle you currently have or had previously that you’d given up on. I often come up with some of my best ideas in the shower, starting with a warmer shower that leads to a cool finish to further kick start those creative thoughts and carry the energy to accomplish them. Moving water brings the energy and activation for thoughts, whereas still water can bring calmness to the body and mind alike. Taking a bath in comforting warm water for instance can bring relaxation and allow us to quiet our minds and focus on being in the present, letting our body rest from the hard work it has endured throughout the day. There are also items such as sensory deprivation tanks that are completely dark, soundproof tanks filled with water and a percentage of salt to support the body’s ability for flotation. These tanks allow relaxation and redirection of the mind to have one single focus, recovery and restoration. Allowing your mind to truly rest is like hitting the reset button, which reboots the mind and filters out what is important to us and in our direct line of control. Reminding ourselves to breathe and be present, sets the body and mind up for success in tackling anything life throws at you.”