CABBAGE TREE BAY THE CALLING

This is part of a series based on Cabbage Tree Bay which is an Aquatic Marine Reserve at North Manly beach, Sydney. When in Manly my favorite thing to do (except paint) is snorkel through the sea grasses from Manly to Shelley Beach, it's truly magical. This short stretch of ocean evokes so much emotion that one can only attempt to express it in paint. You feel your health battery charging with every minute spent under water. Ocean swimming is great for mineral absorption because Seawater is rich in magnesium, potassium, and iodine. Soaking in these minerals can help improve skin barrier function, hydrate the skin, and reduce inflammation. Cold-water immersion can also trigger the production of white blood cells and antioxidants. This "cold shock" response is believed to boost the immune system over time. Research suggests that being near or in water induces a mildly meditative state. The rhythmic sound of waves and the expansive horizon can lower cortisol levels and reduce anxiety. Dipping your face or body into cool ocean water stimulates the Vagus Nerve. This can lower your heart rate and transition the body from a "fight or flight" state into a "rest and digest" state. With this particular work I was thinking about the non-thoughts that go through my mind when I'm submerged. All of the feelings are more visceral, and a different state of consciousness is activated.