Have you heard of The Blue Mind Theory ? It is the idea that being near water, or even just experiencing the sound of water and/or picturing it, can bring a person into a calmer state and boost their mood. According to Dr. Nick Bach , a psychologist and CEO of Grace Psychological Services, “ The effect of water increases dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin levels while reducing cortisol. [T]he sound, color, and touch of water can lower the pulse rate and increase calmness. ” Mambukal Resort As the heat of an El Nino summer builds in our tropical island, folks are taking to the water wherever they can get close to it. The Philippines is an archipelago in the Western Pacific Ocean made up of 7,641 islands, of which approximately 2,000 are inhabited - plenty to accommodate the overheated hordes.
Palm trees with their towering trunks and feathery fronds are enduring symbols of life, resilience, and prosperity. Across millennia, they have inspired myths, religious rituals, and artistic works, deeply rooted in human culture. From ancient civilizations to modern cities, the palm tree transcends borders and generations of symbolism and significance. Few plants are more recognizable than the mighty palm. They rise triumphant, heedless of their surroundings, confident in their sturdy trunked foundation. idyllic island paradise Humanity has revered palms throughout the ages. Date palms played a pivotal role in building and fueling early cultures. They were grown 5000 years ago for their shade, high-energy fruit, and construction materials. Across eons and cultures, palm leaves symbolize victory with integrity, a meaning reinforced when we look skyward to see the leaves catch the wind.