Blue Mind

June 9, 2014
In this profound study, Biologist and researcher Nichols shares the many ways in which water positively impacts not just our lives, but also our minds. The title refers to the author's term for "a mildly meditative state characterized by calm...and a sense of general happiness...inspired by water and elements associated with water." This state is in strong contrast to anxious or angry "Red Mind" and depressed "Gray Mind." Nichols supports these claims with research spanning across multiple disciplinaries exploring neuroplasticity and neurochemistry, happiness, and creativity, and cites studies that demonstrate a positive impact of water on addiction and autism. He reviews the impact of water on each of the human senses: its blue color and gentle motion; the smells and tastes we perceive in water or rain; how we feel when immersed. Water "play" including surfing, swimming, and fishing activities are discussed with respect to their impact on the brain. Nichols concludes with the story of his Blue Marble project, in which he presents audiences with a symbol of the watery Earth to remind them of their connection to, and responsibility for, the resources of our planet. With many citations for the scientifically curious, and numerous anecdotes that entertain, Blue Mind will interest a broad audience, from fans of water sports to ecologists.

Nichols catalogs the numerous psychological benefits of being near or in the water, particularly the ocean. He acquaints listeners with the work of the "blue mind" summits as well as researchers and therapists around the country who study "blue mind." Nichols, a practiced public speaker, does an excellent job narrating his own material. His presentation is clear and well paced, and his enthusiasm for the topic is infectious. While the soothing effects of ocean waves and bubbling brooks may seem self-evident, listeners will be surprised by the extent of water's documented positive influence on the human psyche. F.C. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine

July 1, 2014
A lifelong ocean advocate and aquatic educator examines the biocentric and neurochemical wonderments of water.Passionately dedicated to oceanic sciences, marine biologist and California Academy of Sciences research associate Nichols presents fieldwork largely focused on scientific experiments measuring the human brain's electrical response to water. He astutely examines how the ocean, the color blue and regular human interaction with water significantly affect mood, attitude and energetic productivity, and he explores our evolutionary connection to water and the ways it inspires creative flow. On a personal note, Nichols admits to his own attraction to the water's edge initiated when he brought his 18-month-old daughter along on an oceanside coastal trek from Oregon to Mexico. Factors such as DNA, biology and physical well-being can predispose one to an attraction to water, he writes, and as his numerous studies suggest, we tend to be at our happiest when surrounded by a natural environment, whether swimming, surfing or simply bathing, and "riverbanks, beaches, and lakefronts" play a large part in this accumulated state of blissfulness. This postulate is further proved by the consistent demand for premium-priced oceanfront property across the globe. But as seductively pristine as these waters are, Nichols warns, they also carry risk and a downside, as evidenced by the devastation of Superstorm Sandy and the environmentally devastating Deepwater Horizon oil spill. A true voice for environmental advocacy, Nichols promotes the "Blue Mind" approach to conscious ecological conservation and fosters the Earth-friendly, interconnectedness expressed through his Blue Marble Project. In the book's thought-provoking introduction, Celine Cousteau admits to being as irresistibly drawn to water as her grandfather Jacques was, yet she previously resisted the need to "explain the magic." She now realizes that Nichols' unique fieldwork and scientific scrutiny is necessary "to restore the health of the world's water systems."A fascinating, fact-based report for aquaphiles and those at one with the tides.

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June 15, 2014

The Blue Mind project, founded by marine biologist and environmental activist Nichols, uses cutting-edge science to explore the indelible connection between humans and water. The project draws from research in neuroscience, biology, psychology, and beyond to highlight the profound therapeutic and health benefits of direct contact with water. Here, Nichols synthesizes the project's research to argue that everyone can become happier and healthier simply by enjoying an ocean, river, swimming pool, or fish tank. He points to a plethora of scientific studies to highlight our profound biological attachment to water and shows how humans invariably respond to the substance at a deep emotional and neurological level. He also offers inspiring personal testimony from a wide range of people who are positively affected by their association with the element. Luckily for those who prefer other natural settings, Blue Mind's research attests that any kind of connection to nature has beneficial results. VERDICT It is impossible not to engage with Nichols as an author; his irrepressible sense of wonder and passion for his subject are simply inspiring.--Kelsy Peterson, Johnson Cty. Community Coll. Lib., Overland Park, KS

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