<h1>Slow Rhythms</h1> <br><br>
In Antarctica one is noticeably awed by the towering white glaciers, the feeding whales, and bounding penguins. However something subtler is at work as well. While exploring the “last continent” for two weeks, one is also away from the beeps and notifications of phones, the swirling news, the errands and appointments. Instead one settles down in to a basic and satisfying existence free from digital distractions and full of good conversation, the rolling rhythm of the boat and time to think and reflect. Its two weeks people rarely get anymore to just let nature take its course. it frees the brain. <br><br>
It reminds me of working on a schooner while in University. We took 9-14 year olds out for a week at at time – starting each Sunday night. We would go out sailing. No other goal – no lectures or classes or tests – just get out, go sailing and enjoy the rhythm. So Monday morning it was all new for the kids – lines to pull, places to explore, but by Tuesday they were asking – what next? we’ve done it all. And we’d say this is it – enjoy! Slowly they would come around. By Friday the kids would be sitting on deck watching the ocean roll by, or in groups creating their own fun games on deck. They found the rhythm and slowed down. And I think the same is true for our and our guests’ time in Antarctica – its time to sit on deck – watch for the whale tail, feel the spray leap out every once and a while, catch the castle of an iceberg floating by – and enjoy.<br><br>
– Laura
