Many of us like to sit beside rivers, lakes, and beaches for a reason. One of the most effective strategies to support the neurological system is to be close to natural water. The peaceful feeling near water is not just a poetic notion; it is grounded in science. According to research from the University of California, being near a body of water can lower blood pressure and pulse rate. And now, there’s a new term for this, drifting.
What Is Drifting?
The nervous system is calmed by being near water. Marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols writes in his book “Blue Mind” that “being near water permits us to achieve a semi-meditative state known as “drifting.” When we are paying attention to the world around us while not concentrating on completing a task, it’s called drifting. When we are paying attention to the world around us while not concentrating on completing a task, it’s called drifting.
Drifting represents a unique state of attention, distinct from our usual goal-oriented focus. It involves being engaged with the world around us in a way that is open, receptive, and unhurried. This form of attention allows for a more profound connection with our surroundings. When drifting, the mind enters a state akin to daydreaming. However, with a heightened awareness of the external world. This state allows for a more intuitive and spontaneous interaction with one’s surroundings. It can lead to moments of unexpected insight, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of the natural world
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The Peaceful Feeling Near Water
Studies have shown that the sound of water, such as waves crashing on the shore or the gentle trickle of a stream, can lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. This auditory stimulus promotes a state of relaxation and can even improve focus and mental clarity. The visual aspect of water, with its calming blue hues and rhythmic movements, also plays a significant role in inducing a meditative state.
Water activities such as swimming, boating, or simply sitting by the shore can provide a sense of freedom and liberation. The act of drifting, whether physically floating on water or metaphorically allowing one’s thoughts to flow freely, encourages a letting go of control. In turn, it fosters a state of calm and acceptance.
So, when are you going to drift by?
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