The Bountiful Blue: Discovering the Aquatic Gems of the Ocean

hether you were captivated by the castaways of Lost, nostalgically remember watching Otto and his wave-shredding crew on the Saturday morning favorite, Rocket Power, or have an affinity for timeless beach shows, your soul might just resonate with the power and mystery of our oceans.

And unless you are someone who wears their socks and shoes in the sand, it is most likely easy for you to get captivated by the deep blue ocean. Oh, how easy it is to sit back daydreaming about standing before the sun-kissed beach, miles of endless golden sand and rich turquois water. Standing there as you watch surfers carve through the waves with effortless precision and the beach volleyball players engage in fierce competition, all while breathing in the air filled with an invigorating scent of salt water. It is as if you can feel the salt water coursing through your veins, like the very waves themselves are resonating through your soul. It is there, deep within the depths of the ocean, where we as men discover our truest expression of the adventurous spirit that lays within.

The Ocean: The Connection of Humanity

Whether you're a die-hard fan of beach-centric entertainment or simply feel an inexplicable connection to the sea, the ocean holds significance for every human that goes beyond the sandy shores. It has been a source of awe and wonder for centuries, captivating the human imagination with its vastness and mysterious depths. The ocean has played a pivotal role in human exploration, spirituality, trade, and even warfare, shaping the course of civilizations and reminding us that, no matter how technologically advanced we become, we're still at the mercy of a large body of water that doesn't care about our Wi-Fi signal.

The Deadly Sin of Our Ignorance

However, in our endless pursuits to "evolve" and our unparalleled ingenuity, humans have managed to transform the once pristine ocean into a playground for plastic. Astonishingly, it is estimated that over 8 million metric tons of plastic waste somehow seemingly waltzes its way down the beach and into the ocean, which then results in floating plastic islands. [1] If your idea of paradise involves escaping the bustling company of fellow humans and enjoying the smell of plastic, you might be thrilled to discover that you could buy a new affordable island getaway.

In addition, thanks must be given to our masterful overfishing techniques, where we've successfully reduced fish populations by a jaw-dropping 75%. There is something about lab sushi as an alternative that gives me visions of spending too much time around a different kind of fish bowl. [2]

When we destroy nature we diminish our capacity to sense the divine. [Robert F. Kennedy Jr.]

Firing the Negative Ion Cannons of Serenity

While it appears we have an all-time high score in our grind to trash the ocean, it turns out that the vast blue expanse still is looking out for us, from the calming sound of crashing waves acting as nature's sedative, to the seaside activities that provide us with a temporary distraction from our self-inflicted mess. For example, negative ions, those tiny charged particles endlessly abundant in natural environments like the crashing of the waves, have shown in studies that they can improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. [3]

On the other hand, should sitting on the sand bring you to boredom, getting into the saltwater can be more beneficial than the Flintstone vitamins you've been taking since you were two years old. Keep your wetsuit in the Blue Tacoma; letting the saltwater contact your skin can provide essential minerals like magnesium, iodine, calcium, and potassium, which offers a range of detoxifying and healing properties. So instead of spending too much money on a "spa" where you just sit in a box full of salt with your lady, plan an epic trip and take her to the ocean. You'll win some extra bonus points you can cash in later, while also reaping the health benefits of through the waves.

Health Benefits of the Ocean:

• Enhanced Respiratory Health
• Increased Vitamin D
• Improved Circulation
• Deeper Sleep
• Strengthened Immune System

“The heart of man is very much like the sea, it has its storms, it has its tides and in its depths it has its pearls too” [Vincent van Gogh]

Challenge:

Commit to getting out in nature, and if you can, to the ocean. See the Objective(s) for ideas.

Post your progress in The Old Gate - Discord Channel - 🏆︱reach-the-milestone

Objective(s):

1. Check out these two organizations helping to keep the waters clean; Surfrider Foundation & Ocean Defenders.
2. Avoid single use plastic like straws and plastic bottles.
3. Buy a new pair of swim trunks made from recycled plastic from the ocean.
4. Shop resale shops for new clothes or find ways to reuse, repurpose, or repair old clothes.
5. Plan an epic trip to the ocean. While you wait, put a salt lamp or indoor fountain in your home to increase negative ions.