On a hot day there is nothing like a cool dip in the pool or a natural body of water to refresh body, mind and spirit.
I’ve lived near a natural body of water all my life, as a child and young adult on a river and now the sea, so I know firsthand the rejuvenating power of submersion in water.
To begin your meditation take time to immerse yourself. Do stretching exercises or swimming strokes to get the kinks out and use up nervous energy. Your meditation will be the reward.
Ready for the stillness?
Float on your back letting your body go as you would with a deep relaxation on your back on land. Shake out your feet and work your way up your body.
Of course you want to stay conscious so you don’t get water in your nostrils.
Extend your arms out to the sides for balance and move them as necessary while your body is being fully supported by the water. The back of your neck and ears will be submersed.
Alternately, lay on your back on a raft or flotation device. If you are in the sun lather on enough sunscreen to protect your skin from radiation.
Now begin a period of even and regular breathing such as one count to inhale and one count to exhale and continue this rhythmic pattern.
Begin listening to the sounds of nature, the repeated chirping of birds, buzzing of bees, whatever is in your environment.
After a few minutes of relative stillness stretch out, roll over on your stomach and swim for a minute before coming out to dry off.
The effects of meditating in water are so refreshing because you almost lose consciousness of your body, you literally take a load off your body and by relaxing bring peace and harmony to mind.
Even in the ocean you can relax into a modified meditation and float up and down on the waves. Also if it is very salty body of water this will aid in supporting you.
Enjoy your time in water meditation, especially during the dog days of summer. It is a mini retreat amidst the hub bub of daily life.
For offline reading
Meditation Lessons for AdultsMore than 70 offerings, from guided meditation techniques to on-the-go stress relief and relationship meditations interspersed with verse, and a section of special occasion prayers. 114 pages.
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Meditation for all KidsSitting, walking, dance and group circle meditations, along with positive affirmations, verses and benefits of meditation for kids of all ages and abilities in a 100 page book with illustrations.
Meditation by Susan Helene Kramer; photo credit W. R. Kramer
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