WELLNESS WITH ‘BAHAYOGI’
‘The Spirit of Island Living’
By Alexandra ‘Bahayogi’ Kaufmann Photographs courtesy of Elijah Sands, Shawne Bryan and Alexandra Kaufmann
B
irthed near the ocean with sunshine in my veins and the sound of crashing waves in my ears—I was born an island girl. The quintessential dream life begins on an island, beachfront, sandy toes and fresh coconut in hand. What a privilege it is to call this my reality. I live in paradise. But this life is so much more than just a picturesque view. Island living encompasses a greater connection to Mother Earth and our inner being. Island living is peace, gratitude, and respect. A breath of fresh air is a breath of peace. In IQAir’s 2021 report on World Air Quality, The Bahamas ranked as the country with the cleanest air quality globally. So, how can we take advantage of this crisp, clean air? Take a moment, step outside and breathe. Find yourself in 10 deep belly breaths filled with intention and appreciation for the life it brings into your body. Want more? Get closer to the ocean and take a seat near the shoreline. Connect your breath to the natural ebb and flow of the ocean’s waves, and as you breathe in that salty-sweet air, take a moment to bask in the power of Mother Nature’s gift—salt. Salt is a healing property. According to the Lung Institute, ocean air improves lung function, thins mucus, and reduces coughing in individuals with lung disease and breathing issues. The ocean air contains tiny droplets of seawater, which contain salt, iodine, and magnesium. When we breathe, we inhale these restorative particles, which stimulate our immune system to help clear out any impurities. A few days on the beach can help significantly improve your mood, enhance breathing, and cultivate peace. And that’s the doctor’s order! As an island girl, I am grateful for pristine beaches, breath-taking sunsets, freshly picked juicy mangoes that drain down my forearms when I eat them, and everything else that reminds me of how magical my country is. Yet, my gratitude delves even deeper into my maternal lineage rooted in Andros and Cat Island. When I step foot on these islands, my body, mind, and soul feel a sense of nourishment. As if my ancestors’ wisdom, power, courage, and love flow through me with every step and breath. I say this to remind you of the importance of sharing thanks with those that came before us and honoured this land, bringing it to fruition. And with those who continue to keep this land lush,
39
up and away
