WATER WORLD

It’s no wonder that at the height of summer I’m musing on the beauty of water. We are so lucky here in South Florida to live next to the sea—and even luckier to have our new Spa at Opal Grand overlooking the shore. I love to hold in mind the way the ocean waters keep us cool when we go for a beach dip, but also reflect the sparkling sunlight and soothe the soul with views of the vast horizon and the rhythmic sound of waves, which, for me, always connects to the heartbeat. When we play watery music in the Spa, I love to feel like I’m swimming through my summer days.

Of course, on the scientific side, not only is drinking water and staying hydrated great for your skin, but can help lower blood pressure and even decrease anxiety. I always recommend drinking plenty, but also suggest including not only foods that boost your hydration (cucumber and watermelon) but electrolyte-rich foods that help you *stay* hydrated. These include spinach, broccoli, kale and almonds as well as strawberries, bananas and tomatoes.

But the ultimate water experience, the one that moves me most deeply, is floating on the open water. Connecting with this essential element in such a profound way is always one of the high points of my season, and something that moves me in ways that words can hardly express. It is a profound restoration for body, mind and spirit—nature’s own perfect reset. If you have a chance to float this summer, please enjoy every moment of that experience and draw it down into your cells.