We have a triangular sandspit in Brooklin that is not quite a sandbar. It’s the “point” of Naskeag Point at Naskeag Harbor. The sand is gravely and almost disappears at very high tides. Yet, in summer, it’s “the beach” to some residents and the occasional visitor. There’s plenty of room there to take masks off and not worry about the plague and other people.
The view at the Point is of beautiful Maine coastal islands, interesting fishing vessels, and flotillas of colorful kayaks going out or coming in. The water temperature can be too chilly for many swimmers, but foot-dipping there while sunbathing can be a pleasing yin-yang experience.
Being at the right beach reportedly can have significantly good effects on mental health – the effects of the soothing sound of waves, the tingle of toes in the water or sand, and skin being washed by fresh, salty breezes and warming sun. These can bring “mental balance” in troubled times, according to some studies. Of course, protection from too much sun is needed, and we’re not talking about beaches that attract ant-like humans who have a swarming instinct.
We’re talking about a place where you can open yourself and let the elements in to do some brain cleaning (which we imagine to be the case in the first image) or to go the other way and get lost in deep thought as a salty breeze sweeps over you (which we imagine is happening in the second image). Both images were taken this month, but on different days. (Brooklin, Maine)