“… Almost a Paradise of Nature.”
National Park Service
When I go anywhere in the PNW, I seek out a waterfront. It is my place to recharge my emotional batteries. This one did not disappoint. The sheer magnitude of the open skyline was impressive. I wish we had been there at sunset. I will definitely be making a return to see that. I can only imagine how glorious that looks with the pink, purple and blue skies.
But while plenty of studies have focused on green spaces, researchers are also beginning to look at the health benefits of living near water. So far, studies show that people living near water have a lower risk of premature death, a lower risk of obesity, and generally report better mental health and wellbeing. These blue spaces also reduce the gap between less and more affluent areas in the risk of dying prematurely.
TheConversation.com
Also pictured is a couple of drift wood structures that are seen all over the waterfronts of WA state. I have always loved seeing kids making these fun hideouts. I have seen so much nature play going on. Real life lessons on the beach and in the forest. So much is learned through this type of play. Physics, botany, teamwork, geology, problem solving, the list goes on and on.
Our oceans, waterways, and the life they contain are so much more than their ecological, economic, and educational value. They have vast emotional benefits. They make life on earth possible, but also worth living.”
“I like to imagine the world would be a better place if we all understood just how true that is. Water is medicine, for everyone, for life.”
Biologist Dr. Wallace J. Nichols
Mukilteo Ferry – Traveling by ferry is one of my favorite modes of transportation. I love standing on the bow feeling the sun and breeze on my face while edging closer to the new adventure I am about to experience.
Traveling by ferry is one of my favorite modes of transportation. I love standing on the bow feeling the sun and breeze on my face while edging closer to the new adventure I am about to experience.
Coupeville – We stopped in this cute little town for lunch. There are an array of unique boutiques and a few quirky restaurants to browse through. I was disappointed that this Raven’s Nest store was already closed for the day when we arrived. Looking in the windows, I could gather it would be a fun place to walk through.
Price Sculpture Forest– What a cool place to walk through! There are a variety of art pieces scattered through the forest along a well maintained dirt path. It was very intriguing to look for art pieces throughout the trees, sometimes even an adventure to see the posted sign listing the artist information, not immediately see the art piece, look around and notice that above your head, or further into the forest there was a sculpture. This is a must see if you are going to visit Whidbey. My favorite spot to stop was this hand made from wooden blocks that wrapped around the tree.
While I enjoy viewing and creating art, I looked up the effect that art has on the brain and mental health. I didn’t realize until now how the brain works to understand and create an emotional response to viewing art. Now I can appreciate art in a whole new way, it is more than just the relaxing feeling of wandering through a sculpture park or art museum.. it is supporting my brain in a healthy way.
Beyond the brain’s skill at making sense of what we’re seeing, the brain actually goes through changes when we look at a beautiful art piece. In fact, according to The Telegraph, looking at a gorgeous painting, sculpture, or other artwork increases blood flow to the brain by as much as 10% — the equivalent of looking at someone you love.
University of Arizona
Deep Breath Adventures 