I Wish You Water: Celebrating the Legacy of Wallace J. Nichols
World Blue Mind Day is observed on July 23rd each year to recognize the emotional benefits of spending time near, in, on, or under healthy bodies of water. When the concept’s founder, Wallace J. Nichols passed away this past June, he left behind profound contributions to our understanding of the human connection to water. Blue Mind is his lasting legacy.
Wallace J. Nichols was a passionate advocate for ocean conservation and mental well-being, emphasizing the therapeutic effects of water on the human psyche.
Born with a deep love for the ocean, “J” dedicated his life to exploring the intricate relationships between water, nature, and humanity. His groundbreaking book, Blue Mind, 2014, delved into the science behind why being near, in, on, or under water can make us happier, healthier, and more connected.
His work resonated globally, inspiring countless people to seek solace and inspiration from aquatic environments.
J’s remarkable career was marked by numerous accomplishments. He conducted pioneering research on sea turtles, publishing numerous authoritative articles on the subject, contributing to greater understanding of sea turtles and their preservation. His efforts extended beyond academia, as he engaged with communities, policymakers, and environmental organizations to foster a deeper appreciation for our planet’s waters.
Beyond his professional achievements, J was known for his warmth, curiosity, and genuine kindness. He touched the lives of many with his insightful talks, writings, and personal interactions, always encouraging others to embrace a Blue Mind lifestyle.
J’s legacy will endure through his invaluable contributions to marine biology, environmental advocacy, and his profound exploration of the human-water connection. He is survived by his family, friends, and a global community inspired by his vision of a world where water is cherished for its physical and emotional benefits.
He was often known to close communications with , “I wish you water.”
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Visions in Blue
By Eric Herman
“You can’t hold back the water, but you can swim with the current.” WJN
I first read Wallace J. Nichols’ visionary book Blue Mind back in 2018. It was being promoted by friends of mine at the National Swimming Pool Foundation, and I wanted to find out what was driving all the buzz.
I quickly read it start to finish and to borrow a phrase from Bob Dylan (appropriately from the song, “Tangled Up in Blue”) J’s words “glowed like burning coals.” He connected the blue dots in a way that no one else had before. For as long as I’ve been covering all things water, Blue Mind delivered a profound ah-ha moment.
By using empirical research and applying the scientific method, he brilliantly articulated the human connection to water, which he described as being in a state of Blue Mind. It was poetry and science all wrapped up in one.
In his seminal description of the concept, J explained: “Blue Mind, a mildly meditative state characterized by calm, peacefulness, unity and a sense of general happiness and satisfaction with life in the moment.”
In reading Blue Mind, it quickly occurred to me that not only was his insightful observation obviously and abundantly true, the human connection to water is why the world of watershaping exists in the first place.
Our innate connection with water is why there’s a reflecting pool in front of the Taj Mahal, it’s why Rome is a City of Fountains, and why families will invest so lavishly in owning pools and spas. It’s also why the entire boating industry and most resort properties are in business, as well. And, it’s certainly why properties near water are always far more expensive than those that are not.
Yet, far beyond the sheer economic and even historic implications of Blue Mind, in an even greater context, the concept embodies the potential for increasing happiness and wellbeing on both individual and collective levels. It’s like therapy in a swimsuit! By appreciating the positive impact that so many forms of water-related experiences hold, and the utterly essential nature of water itself, we gain an appreciation of, and harmony with, our precious blue planet and, indeed, within ourselves.
I’m proud of the fact that Watershape University and WaterShapes, the publication, have worked together to promote the Blue Mind cause. We owe a lifetime of gratitude to J for sharing his vision with us, especially since we began working directly with J back in 2019. Although our time together was far too short, J’s influence is indelible.
Like many, I was deeply saddened to learn of J’s passing on June 10th. He was one of those special people who enlivened and delighted those around him. I personally enjoyed our conversations, which always traveled the loftiest and most inspiring of watery roads. I wish I had known him better, but thankfully, we will always have his remarkable book to remind us and point us to a profound appreciation of the pale blue dot that is our world of water.
For my small part, I will continue to use this platform to spread the good word about Blue Mind and the potential it embodies. It is nothing less than an idea that, I believe, can unite almost all people. After all, pretty close to everybody goes to the water’s edge for essentially the same reason.
Whether we realize it or not, we are all seeking the comfort and joyful stimulation of Blue Mind.
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Thoughts on J Nichols
By Lauren Stack
“It is true that oceans give us life, but our planet’s wild places also make life worth living, and help heal us when we are broken.” WJN
Some people we never forget. Wallace J. Nichols was one of those.
I was new to what was then known as the National Swimming Pool Foundation, when I had the great fortune to attend World Aquatic Health Conference in 2016 with a keynote by J. To say he made a strong impression is a big understatement.
He was charming, charismatic and committed as he concisely articulated his message about the importance of water, in all its forms, to this blue marble of a world. J had embraced Carl Sagan’s “Pale Blue Dot” concept and had taken to giving out blue marbles as a symbol of our amazing world of water, the Earth.
I received my first blue marble at that conference, which still sits on my desk. Countless such marbles have found their way onto the desks and into the lives of others. I and many who were taken by his profound Blue Mind message have watched in awe as people the world over embraced the concept.
There is an old proverb, here paraphrased: “Blessed is he who plants a tree in the shade of which he will not sit.” J certainly laid the groundwork necessary for the Blue Mind Movement to continue without him. However, he sadly did not live to see the impact the 10-year anniversary edition of his bestseller, Blue Mind, would have on a new generation of scientists and water devotees.
J had a novel approach to ocean conservationism. He did not set out to make a bunch of tree-huggers, in a water-analogous way. Instead, his approach was to inspire us to realize how important water is to our physical and mental health, so that we would care for oceans and lakes and rivers and work to halt the menace of “plastic pollution” – a phrase that J created as well.
Given his pure conservationist stance on natural bodies of water, I was fearful of his true feelings towards our industry with its flowery designs, intricate and chemical means of sanitation, and its catering to the rich and famous. When I asked him earlier this year, J’s answer was as unexpected as it was comforting. He could think of no higher-purpose for water, than a vessel or feature expressly created for the enjoyment and health of people – in private or public settings.
That concept resides at the heart of the work we do at Watershape University, and indeed at the broader purpose of the entire industry. We are here to bring water into people’s lives. J recognized that mission and leant his voice and support to our efforts.
When I first head of J’s passing – and reflected on his generous and charitable interactions with me, Watershape University and its students, the greater pool industry, as well as the surfing, fishing and boating industries and all the rest — the song “Vincent”, written by Don McClean about Van Gogh, came to mind: “I could have told you, this world was never meant for one as beautiful as you.”
In one of the class sessions J did for Watershape University, he brought Psalm 23 to light, illustrating that God practices Blue Mind: “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. . .”
That psalm ends with what I want most for J; that he “will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
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Sharing the Sea Turtle Experience
“If you need to heal, heal your mind and your body, and your heart and your soul—get in the water.” WJN
By JC Escudero
I first met J when he was the keynote speaker at 2021 International | Spa | Patio Expo in Las Vegas. In addition to delivering a visionary speech, he gave hundreds of participants, including me, a blue marble as a way to spread the Blue Mind message.
I remember how his message resonated with me and as a result, I needed to approach him and talk in person one-on-one. I was not disappointed. We chatted briefly about the healing powers of water and exchanged stories. I mostly just listened, or asked questions, as we both shared our love for sea turtles and grander thoughts about the natural world and power of water to reshape our lives.
My experiences growing up next to the green turtles of my youth were very different from his experience as an oceanographer researching those magnificent creatures. His thoughts gave added meaning to my cherished memories, and for that I am forever grateful.
Following that pool convention, we met again at every other industry event he attended. I appreciated how he always made the time to chat with me, and share a Pacifico or a picture taken together.
Last year was no different when I spent two days listening to his Watershape University wellness seminar with Dave Peterson on Marco Island, FL. That evening, as we sat together at dinner, a memory that is very special to me, we switched our conversation from English to Spanish, which, to my surprise, he spoke just like a native. He shared his experiences living in Mexico’s coastal cities from Baja California to Michoacan, where most of his oceanography career focused saving the green turtle.
Upon my return from Florida, I was so excited about our time together that I immediately started preparing an article/blog interview that we published in our company blog, sharing his message on our various platforms.
I can’t find a better way to celebrate his life than to spread his message with you all and share his book, hoping it will inspire you and share his vision; as J always said, I wish you water.
Descansa en paz amigo!
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A Remarkable Life
By Michelle Kavanaugh
I first met Dr. Wallace J. Nichols in 2016 when he was the keynote speaker at the World Aquatic Health Conference in Norfolk, VA. Tom Lachocki, the CEO of the National Swimming Pool Foundation, had been deeply moved by Dr. Nichols’ incredible book, Blue Mind, now a beloved staple in the pool industry, and we invited him to share his wisdom with us.
From the moment he took the stage, I was in awe of his presence. He spoke with such confidence, passion, and conviction about the profound impact of being in, around, near or under water. His message was clear, heartfelt, and deeply resonated with everyone in attendance. Dr. Nichols was a joy to work with, and his keynote address left an indelible mark on all of us.
In 2021, as I continued my work with Watershape University, Dr. Nichols became a valued partner and collaborator. He contributed to our educational programs, inspiring pool designers and builders with his insights from Blue Mind. His dedication to elevating minds and fostering a deeper connection with water was evident in everything he did.
The news of his passing was a complete shock. I remember gasping when Lauren Stack from Watershape University texted me the devastating news. A tremendous sadness washed over me—not just for myself and Watershape University, but for his family and for all the lives he touched. Dr. Nichols had a unique gift for connecting with people, and his insightful wisdom had the power to transform lives. The world is not as bright without him.
Dr. Nichols was more than a colleague; he was a beacon of light in our industry. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, but his absence leaves a void that will be felt by all who knew him and those he will inspire in the future. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family and all who were touched by his remarkable life.
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Remembering a Champion
By Dave Peterson
“We are beginning to learn that our brains are hardwired to react positively to water and that being near it can calm an connect us, increase innovation and insight, and even heal what’s broken.” WJ
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Wallace J. Nichols, a cherished colleague and friend at Watershape University. As we affectionately called him, J profoundly influenced our community with his visionary insights and dedication to understanding the profound connection between water and human well-being.
J’s contributions to Watershape University were invaluable. He taught classes that inspired us to focus on Blue Mind, a concept he championed that emphasizes the powerful and positive effects of water on our mental and physical health. Through his eloquent and diverse presentation style, J illuminated the reasons why water is integral to wellness, delving into body mechanics, chemistry, biology, physiology, psychology, and neurology and our intrinsic human connection with water.
His teachings encouraged us to honor water in our pool building and design, understanding its more profound significance for us and our clients. J’s passion for water and the environment was evident in everything he did. He helped us see beyond the technical aspects of our work to the profound impact it can have on people’s lives.
J was not just a teacher but a true champion of the environment. His advocacy for water’s role in our lives and his commitment to protecting this precious resource have left an indelible mark on our community. His Blue Mind philosophy is more relevant now than ever, reminding us of the peace, wellness, and connection that water brings.
In memory of Dr. Wallace J. Nichols, we continue to strive toward a greater understanding and appreciation of water in all our endeavors. J, your legacy lives on in every ripple, wave, and drop that inspires and sustains us.
We wish you eternal peace and water.
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Thanks to a Leader
By Thomas M. Lachocki, Ph.D.
In October 2017, representing the National Swimming Pool Foundation, I was honored to receive the Fourth-annual Blue Mind Award from Dr. Wallace J. Nichols.
As scholars have taught, leadership is not about being in front of others. Leaders articulate a message in which others also believe. Then together, they stand shoulder to shoulder and march forward. J articulated how being in, on, around and under the water lights up people’s neurons in the happiness part of the brain.
He articulated that those who bring water to people are truly in the happiness business. Is not the pursuit of happiness “an inalienable right?” I am sad that J is gone from this place. Yet, I still stand shoulder to shoulder and march forward!
How about you?
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A Life of Water
By Dave Penton
I have spent most of my existence curating a life surrounded by water. Ever since I was a child, I have been drawn to it.
I grew up in Buffalo, NY where I spent most summer mornings riding my bike to the local public pool for swimming lessons and recreation. My best friend had a pool, and every summer afternoon was split between swimming and watching Star Wars on his family’s Betamax (yes, I’m that old!). Growing up, my family had a small power boat and we spent countless hours each and every weekend on the waters of the Niagara River fishing, swimming, water skiing, and just generally reveling in and around water.
When my family moved to Southern California as I entered my teen years, my love affair with water expanded even further as I took up surfing, water polo, and scuba diving.
Fast forward to 2018 when I first was introduced to Dr. Wallace J. Nichols book Blue Mind by my friend, Eric Herman. By this point in my life, I had been successful in construction — an existence completely immersed in and around water. I knew my love of water was deep, but I had never possessed the words to explain my relationship with water, nor the reason I find it so deeply embedded into my psyche. After reading J’s book I realized I had found my minstrel.
The things I read within the pages of his book gave me language (backed by science) which clarified just how fundamental water is not only to me, but to all of humanity. It stirred in me a new understanding, and passion for my work as a watershaper. I now realize that I am not only creating beautiful recreational vessels for my clients, but also providing them with a source of Blue Mind that they will benefit from each time they interact with them (even if just visually).
I am not a person who is enamored by celebrity. So, it was quite a surprise how nervous I was, in 2023, when I was first introduced to J in person at a Watershape University event (located fittingly on the beach in Marco Island, FL). I spent the next three days sitting under his instruction, followed by late nights on the beach, and in the lobby of the hotel, exchanging stories of our shared passion surrounding water, and how we could collaborate to further evangelize the world on the benefits of water exposure.
I count myself blessed to have been able to spend those days being mentored by J. Over the next 18 months, we continued to connect about family, our mutual love of the ocean, and other shared Blue Mind topics.
I feel a genuine loss as an individual, but it is more than just a personal pain I feel. I am sad for my industry. J was just starting to create inroads into teaching us how Blue Mind is not just a marketing strategy, but also how beneficial being in/on/under/near water is for our clients.
As a lifelong surfer and scuba diver, I am also sad for the ocean. I feel in many ways J was the father/caretaker for our oceans, ala Sylvia Earle and Jacques Cousteau. The oceans are worse off today after this tragic loss.
J traveled the world proselytizing the benefits of water, yet never looked to profit from his endeavors. He just wanted everyone to experience Blue Mind in whatever way possible, and his impact on our planet will be felt for generations.
Dr. Nichols – you are and will continue to be missed greatly! Rest In Water.