The Caribbean Sea has always held a special place in my heart. Its mesmerizing turquoise waters can soothe my soul and lighten my spirits. So, I decided to escape on a mini vacation to Antigua; I was drawn to the water.
Rain that first day
Despite the torrential rain that welcomed us upon our arrival, I couldn’t resist the allure of the beach. The raindrops hitting the water’s surface created an enchanting spectacle. I walked down to the water, not caring about the heavy downpour. All I could think of was, “Let me see that water.”
The next day, the rain cleared away. I woke up at 5:30 am and was again drawn to the water. I had hoped to witness a sunrise over the ocean, but when I walked down to the water, I saw it was clouded. However, the morning’s calmness and the beach’s serene beauty made the early rise worth it.
Going for a Swim
When I finally slipped into the water for a swim, I felt an overwhelming sense of joy and peace. I was in my happy place. Swimming out far, feeling the cool water glide against my skin, and tasting the salty sea air made me feel alive.
I felt as if I could keep going, exploring the vast expanse of the ocean. But, I also wanted to stay close to the resort, so I curbed the urge to venture too far.
The water was choppy. But, if you know me, you know I love that. It was as if I were swimming in a water bed.
Thinking about Death
The thought of dying and having my ashes spread across this beautiful water oddly brought a smile to my face. On that first day, it was just me and the endless turquoise blue. No music, no distractions. Just the rhythmic sound of my breath and the gentle lapping of the waves.
The Lifeguard
At one point, a lifeguard approached me in a jet ski. He was concerned about how far I had swum. “You are way too far out,” he warned, pointing out the boats, kayaks, and jet skis that were within my distance. I realized then that I had perhaps let my enthusiasm carry me farther than was safe.
When I finally finished my swim, a different lifeguard came over to commend me on using a buoy and acknowledged my swimming ability. He half-joked about thinking I was going to swim to the island across the way. “I was thinking about it,” I admitted, “but I decided not to.”
To me, the water is more than just a place for a swim. It is my sanctuary, my haven, a place where I felt free.
This experience in Antigua’s waters was a vivid reminder of the healing power of nature and the profound peace that can be found in embracing the elements.
After the Swim
I felt so amazing that I wanted to continue to feel that way. So, I put on my adidas Women’s Hoodies and matching sweat pants and hung around the beach and the hotel feeling snuggly good. (As an adidas blogger, I had the hoodie and the sweatpants gifted to me.)