Could you tell me a time you felt at peace?
When everything feels too much I go to the coast. When curveballs catch me off guard. When my phone won’t stop pinging. When I’m completely burnt out and over-socialised and out of balance.
When I need to reconnect I know that I’ll find solace in the sea.
Whether the sun is blazing or the wind is howling. No matter if it’s hammering it down with rain or the waves are surging up the slipway, sometimes I’lll find myself in mood so bad that there’s only one thing that’ll cure it.
I bundle my dog into the boot of the car, slinging in a swimsuit after her. Without turning on the radio I’ll drive to the farm lane that leads to my favourite swim spot in silence. The second the salty sea air licks my face I feel a sense of relief. Trade winds tease my hair. My dog sets off down the track without hesitation.
As always the slip is deserted. I leave my clothes in a hasty bundle by my backpack and my bare feet carry me towards the water. The second my toes touch the surface my mind slows. I stop thinking of endless to-do lists, anxieties and arguments. I am entirely present. The only things that exist are me and the sea.
Wading out I regain my sense of control. Taking the plunge is hard, but I know I’ll do it. I relish in my willpower. I feel brave. Time almost stops. I take a deep breath and smile slightly as I slide beneath the surface.
It’s so quiet under the water. I open my eyes to the out-of-focus blue that greets me. I let the cold water swathe me. I look towards the light above, shining through from one world to another. And I feel at peace.
My breath escapes in a stream of bubbles. I resurface. Back in the cold air, I still feel at peace.
Photography By @dgray76dc