Mornings at Baldwin Beach, Maui

Last night I decided I would get up early this morning and take a walk on Baldwin Beach. It was a fabulous idea! Minutes from the northshore town of Pa'ia, the expansive golden sand beach was mostly empty and the turquoise ocean was pristine. I felt energized walking along the shore of the long, gorgeous beach, occasionally letting my feet refresh in the cool splashes of small waves. I soaked in the elements with all my senses. The warm sun penetrated my muscles, the steady cool breezes stimulated my spirits, the soft packed sand massaged the bottom of my feet as it exercised my calves. It felt more like pleasure than exercise. Today the waves were small, as they can get big and the currents strong at Baldwin. But today was a mellow summer Saturday. Surely by afternoon, the enormous beach would fill up with sun bathers, body boarders, joggers and picnickers. But it's never completely full. There always seems to be enough sand space for everyone at Baldwin Beach.
As I enjoyed my walking meditation, I ran into several people I knew who were also walking along the shimmering coastline. People I hadn't seen in years. Everyone who was walking or jogging seemed to be smiling. I also saw several people enjoy their morning yoga or stretches. Something about morning at the beach that helps one to breath in nature and let go of distractions - absorbing the salty air while slowly expanding flexibility.
I also enjoy all the unexpected treasures of the sea that happen on a morning walk on the beach. A perfect shell that no one else has spotted. A glorious piece of drift wood that washes in front your feet. Clouds shape shift across the skies. I hear that negative ions on the beach improve one's mood. I know the sounds of crashing waves, children's laughter and the wind through the trees calms and inspire me. The fresh air invigorates me.
Finally the moment comes at the end of the brisk walk, to plunge into the refreshing ocean!! Diving underwater, I hold my breath as long as I can as I glide into the salty abyss. After swimming around for a bit, I surrender to floating on the water's surface. I am able to completely let go of all weight and stress, only hearing the sounds underwater. During whale season it is possible to hear the whales cry in the distance underwater nearly everywhere on Maui. For now, I hear the wooshing of the waves and the sounds of silence. I breath and relax, clearing my mind as I allow the ocean's water to gently envelope me. It's like pushing the restart button on life. My morning at the beach instantly renewed my spirit, energized my body and refreshed my mind. I am reminding myself to do this more often! Free yet invaluable ~