Most people have heard of the “Blue Zones” but if you haven’t, they are the 5 regions of the world where people live longer than average. A common feature of the 5 Blue Zones is also their proximity to the ocean. As I continue to spend time on learning more about the Blue Zones and what makes them so special, I am also continuing to learn how our relationship to nature and the environment can facility personal and spiritual growth as well as heal the body and mind.
Golfo Dulce - Osa Peninsula
In just a month and a half, we will be making our way to the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica. While this particular location isn’t EXACTLY in a Blue Zone, it’s not far from the Nicoya Peninsula. Our retreat center is nestled in the rainforest and on the Pacific Ocean. The beauty of this particular location is that it’s directly in the Golfo Dulce where there is calm and warm waters.
When I first learned about “Be Held: A Supported Ocean Experience”, I was intrigued. What exactly is that? First, I will talk about craniosacral therapy to fully understand the experience. Craniosacral therapy is an alternative form of massage therapy which uses gentle touch to palpate the membranes of the cranium, neck and back to relieve tension and compression. While craniosacral therapy can relieve symptoms of many common ailments including sinus issues, migraines, and even anxiety and depression, it also just feels really good.
So what does this have to do with the ocean? Well, Be Held offers a similar experience with the added benefit of being weightless in the Pacific Ocean. Golfo Dulce not only provides a peaceful and tranquil ocean experience, the temperatures of the water average about 85 degrees year round. However, the circumstances must be perfect to participate in this experience. First, you must have several facilitators to allow the participant to “float” in the water. Second, the temperatures of the water need to be warm enough to feel comfortable floating in the water for 20 minutes. And finally, it must be low tide to allow as little current as possible in the water.
If you are interested in learning more about this unique experience, please visit the link to watch the youtube video. If you would like the chance to experience Be Held, join us in Costa Rica in January! Cristin will be guiding your experience while Carissa and I assist. We can’t wait to offer it!