Journey of Release: A Deep Dive Into 'That Was Carmel by the Sea'

I often come across emotions that not only evoke deep verses but also resonate on a personal level. "That Was Carmel by the Sea" is one such poem. It was my attempt to portray the raw human universal; holding onto memories and the pain they carry, and the arduous journey of releasing them. In this blog, I want to share with you what this poem meant to me when I wrote it.

---

The Burden of Memories

I started the poem with the line, "And I was holding onto it," a sentiment that immediately came to me. This was a powerful reminder of our natural tendency to grasp onto our memories, much like the sea holds onto seaweed, whether the memory be joyous or painful. I wanted to capture the essence of carrying the weight of our past.

The Turbulence of Emotions

Later, I compared powerful emotions to the Carmel sea during a cloudy fall and further link them to the seaweeds released by the ocean. I also wanted to paint a vivid imagery that underscores the unpredictable nature of our feelings, which can shift from calm to turbulent, much like the ever-changing sea. And just as the ocean is full of hidden weeds, our emotions and inner turmoil may be concealed beneath the surface, veiled by a composed exterior. My goal with this dual metaphor was to emphasizes the complex and dynamic character of our emotions, which can unexpectedly surface in our lives, much like seaweed emerging from the depths of the sea.

Releasing the Pain

In this poem I touched on the struggles of letting go, a process that can be freeing but also intimidating. In phrases like "I had to do it alone" and "I had to do it in the deep night". I wanted to emphasize the personal and solitary nature of this journey. Confronting our past and releasing our burdens often feels like a deeply introspective, private process.

Confronting Dark Moments

The symbolism behind addressing our inner turmoil during the quiet of the night, "when nobody was watching," underlines shares the idea that most transformative moments happen when we confront our deepest fears and emotions in solitude. The nightmares in the poem was a reminder that our inner demons are just as real as any external challenges.

A Ray of Hope

"Eventually. It will all be out / So the flies can enjoy it." In this part of the poem I wanted to express a profound message of hope. I shared how even our darkest moments have a purpose. The idea that, eventually, our buried emotions will be set free, contributing to a greater good, speaks to the resilience of the human spirit.

When the Light Fades

I conclude the poem with the observation that "There was no sunset today / It was just dimmed." In this simple line I wanted to a powerful message. It wanted to acknowledge that not every day is filled with the vibrant light of life. Some days are cloudy — the world less vivid. However, even on these dim days, we have the opportunity for introspection and personal growth.

---

"Carmel by the Sea" encapsulates my shared human experience of grappling with the past, my emotions, and my journey toward healing. It is a reminder that I am not alone in my struggles, and that, with time, I can find release and catharsis in my own unique way. As I wrote this poem it served me as a mirror reflecting my innermost thoughts and emotions, inspiring contemplation, empathy, and a sense of connection with the world. I believe it is a testament of the depth and breadth of my human experience.

Thank you for taking the time to read and explore the layers of "Carmel by the Sea." It's my hope that this reflection resonated with you and provided a deeper understanding of the poem's meaning.

To read the full poem please visit: That Was Carmel by the Sea

If you're intrigued by the transformative potential of Breathwork and the soothing embrace of Yoga Nidra, I welcome you to explore my services. By booking a free discovery session, you can learn more about how these practices can empower you on your path toward self-discovery and inner healing.

Your well-being is paramount, and I'm here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

Remember to breathe easy and be present.

-n