Mind over matter
The Coral Sea Academy will host another free, educational and inspirational event this month for locals, focusing on the benefits of being on the water.
17 June 2021
Advertisement
The event will be held at The Lookout Lounge, Coral Sea Marina on Saturday 26 June to explore the Blue Mind theory and the surprising science on how being on the water can benefit your wellbeing and happiness.
The incredible natural assets in the Whitsundays have always been something of a drawcard, from the postcard-perfect Hill Inlet to the iconic Heart Reef formation, and now science backs the reason to get back to nature this winter – it’s actually good for your health.
This information won’t be surprising to many boaters and this recent research only confirms what many in the boating community already know – we experience mental and emotional benefits by being near, in, on or under the water.
This free event is inspired by the work of Dr Wallace J Nichols, a leading researcher on these benefits, marine biologist and author of the best-selling book Blue Mind, which is based on the scientific connection between water and happiness.
In this new COVID-19 world, people’s mental wellbeing has never been more important, explains Joscelyn O’Keefe, Marketing, Sales and Service Manager at Coral Sea Marina.
Advertisement
“We felt it was the perfect time to shine a light on this important topic after the challenging year many have faced with the impact of the pandemic. Our next Coral Sea Academy event is the perfect platform to encourage locals and visitors to get out on the water and look after their own mental wellbeing.
“There are so many ways you can get out on the water in the Whitsundays from booking a tour with any of our incredible operators to hiring a bareboat or a tinnie, inviting friends to join you on your own boat to hopping on as crew in the weekly Twilight sailing races. With the beautiful winter days we’re having, there has never been a better time to get back to nature.”
Guests to this upcoming Coral Sea Academy event can expect to be inspired by a selection of inspirational speakers that will touch on the true value of boating and mindfulness in nature. This event offers the opportunity for people to gain awareness, hear from passionate mental health advocates and discover ways in the Whitsundays to get out on the water.
Coral Sea Marina welcomes inspirational guest speaker James Prascevic who will be sharing his story as a former soldier who overcame destructive post-traumatic stress through a simple love of the ocean.
What started as evenings fishing off a pier quickly progressed to James’ on-water journey to health and happiness, which saw him go from soldier to sailor to World Sailing Record holder.
“I feel 110 percent mentally and physically well when on or around the water,” says James.
“I hope by sharing my story it may inspire others to discover the real benefits associated with boating and being in nature.
“It can be as simple as taking a walk on the beach, fishing with a friend on a pier or going for a twilight sail. There is real value in investing time in yourself and where better to do this than on Whitsunday waters?”
Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network and local wellness coach Bec Russell will also be speaking.
“Being in nature is the most perfect environment to recharge, reset and gain physical and emotional energy,” Bec explains.
“I will be providing some of my coaching methods at the Coral Sea Academy to help you find the tools to recognise and nurture your own wellbeing. Learn some practical tips to enjoy both on your vessel and on the shore that will help you reconnect with nature and yourself.”
This is a free event open to the whole community and an invitation is extended to any visitors to the region to enjoy an educational tourism experience while exploring the beautiful Whitsunday region.
Register for the event here.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
