It is World Oceans Day today and we are right next to one of the best snorkeling reefs in Bali. No better time than now to conquer my fear of the ocean than today. Fear is probably the wrong word, it’s more like unfamiliarity. I’m not schooled in the rip tides, the currents and the deep dark home to so many of earth’s creatures.
Growing up in Minnesota, I spent lots of time in lakes, rivers and pools. We barely traveled out of the state and never to the clear waters of the Caribbean. Living on the east coast, I got used to the dark waters, the waves and the sand with garbage sprinkled in. Sure, there have been trips to Costa Rica, Baja and the Florida Keys, but there never seemed to be an easy opportunity to stick my face in the water.
It was so much easier than I expected and so much cooler. With the sun shining above, we were able to snorkel all around our bay. We saw the coral (mostly dead now) and the most beautiful fish. With fins and the mask, I didn’t have to be an expert swimmer. The waters in Amed are so calm and clear that I had nothing to be afraid of.
Snorkeling easily became one of the best things I have done on this trip and I only wish I would have tried it sooner. It is so noninvasive of their home because you just float above them. You NEVER touch the bottom. That’s important. The coral is fragile and although it should be common sense, you really have to be careful in shallow waters.
Doing this made me feel more connected to the ocean. Watching the different colored fish go about their business below me was so peaceful. Seeing the few pieces of colorful coral left was an important reminder that this is all so fragile and we are destroying it.
I wanted to share my amazing experience with you and also urge you to make these three simple changes starting today.
Use Reef Safe Sunscreen.
We brought this 30 SPF lotion with us (pick some up for yourself here – plus if you buy it, you help support us on this trip) and it hasn’t let us down yet. Beautycounter is a company we both love because they have a mission to be a responsible company putting safer products in the hands of as many people as possible and fighting for stricter regulations on the items we use on our families every day. Another great company is Bare Republic which you can pick up at Target.
Say No to Plastic Straws.
Just pick up a few reusable ones (like these ones) – we’ve been using bamboo straws here for smoothies and iced drinks. It’s easy and it is one small step to help cut down on single use plastic.
Learn about Sustainable Fish
Watch the video below about eating fish sustainably. It takes less than three minutes. You can then use this link to help find the best choices for your next seafood meal. I’ve included a screen shot of their guide below also for quick reference – it’s US based, but you can find one for any country in the world using the website.
Get out there and explore so you can feel a little more connected. Snorkeling is just one way to enjoy the ocean. Every drop of water on this planet deserves protection. Lakes flow into rivers which flow into the oceans. The kids in our lives deserve the chance to see the Coral Reefs and have clean water – do your part.
