The best life enhancers are occasionally found by shear accident. During a swim this week, I found myself mesmerized, peering at the sky. Too often the end of my restorative backstroke lap is met by a hard “clunk” of my head, so I watch the sideline for the palm tree and slow the stroke. I am sure real swimmers have other skills. The soft wispy clouds floated above quickly passing and I found myself smiling. To enjoy the moment I stopped and floated, arms out, eyes up, in pure and total weightlessness, no attempt to hold strength. What a discovery. The simple joy from letting go and permitting the water’s full support was bliss.

Thirty years ago I was in the ocean in NJ, a day off prior to heading to med school. The fear and anxiety almost overwhelming as I prepared to face a huge unknown while my children were young and my self confidence fragile. I held onto a small child’s float and let the cool waves buffet me while I rested my head. There were times in the eight years of training that I recalled those moments. I never allowed myself that luxury again- too bad. The memory however served a sweet reminder of how giving in and being without pressure on the body could release the mind.

The floating recalled that feeling. Nothing to do, no where to be, no stiffness or pain, no angst or drama. Just simple, delightful, calming weightlessness. I couldn’t wait to tell you, and encourage you also to find a way to explore the simplest of pleasures. Since it is July, perhaps a pool, ocean, lake or even letting your legs float in the tub. So simple. Healing. We all need relief. Even holding onto the side of the pool and allowing your body to drift without control. You get the idea.

I intend to do this more and more. Now drawn to the water not for exercise or mind release, but for the added benefit of moments of complete surrender. I remain aware enough to wiggle my toes or hands so the folks on the treadmills peering out from the gym are not tempted to rescue, but it won’t stop me. I discovered a moment of magic and wanted to share that you too can find restoration in the simplest non-activity. Enjoy and treat yourself. No effort involved. If you find yourself smiling too, even better.

ps: if you click on the title you will see the photo which best describes!