Dr. Wallace J. Nichols on Blue Mind

Hello and welcome to Marathon Swim Stories. Do you ever find yourself frustrated, anxious, or overwhelmed, then you go for a swim? Upon exiting the water, all feels right in the world. There’s a name for that – Blue Mind.

I’m excited to share an interview with you today. In December of 2022 I had the good fortune to meet with Dr. Wallace J Nichols, the author of the book Blue Mind: The surprising science about how being near, in, on, or under water can make you happier, healthier, more content, and better at what you do.

The interview was initially part of a separate podcast series that I have since decided belongs right here on Marathon Swim Stories. For it is a story about the water and the benefits of swimming. And even if you already know that swimming makes you better, maybe you’ll be inspired to share this episode with someone who you want to feel better.

I plan to fold more insightful interviews in with stories of swimmers from all walks of life to broaden our perspective on the benefits of what we do in the water and our beloved sport of swimming; in the process I hope that you will help me welcome more people to the water and the benefits of Blue Mind.

We discuss:

• What Blue Mind is in contrast to red and gray mind.
• How tension doesn’t serve you in the water.
• The privilege and access required to learn to swim, and how as water based beings on a water based planet, that’s not okay.
• Gifting water or music for the holidays.
• And the benefits of water and music on the brain.
• And so much more.

I hope you enjoy my conversation with Dr. Nichols.

Creating useful words. | Wallace J Nichols
Dr. Wallace J Nichols | creating The Blue Mind Method | Patreon

Blue Mind Projects mentioned in the podcast:
Willamette River – Human Access Project – Portland, Oregon
Soul River Inc – Leaders For Environmental Justice