Dynamics of a Dolphin Swim

Dynamics of a Dolphin Swim
by Katryn Lavanture

There is a term that I've read about called "dissipative structure". It means "an open system that
transforms anything that contains or defines it." The more coherent and intricate the structure
that contains that system, the more it calls for transformation, i.e. The more coherent and
complicated a structure becomes, the more unstable it becomes. Example: To explore it's
potential, energy crystallizes into form, then breaks down that structure to transcend that form.
Another example would be consciousness. The more confined and complicated our
consciousness or awareness becomes, the more it pushes for transformation and expansion.

Swimming with dolphins, these journeys taken to experience the dolphin spirit intimately,
remind me of this concept of dissipative structure. In our desire to become more than we are
currently, we take ourselves into a dynamic that is almost certain to transform what is
constrictive and unstable, whether in our thoughts, bodies, emotions, beliefs, behaviors, or even
in our spirits.

A dolphin swim experience involves a meeting of many forces - Nature, Cetacean, Vortex
energies, Human mind/ego, and Spirit - every one of them powerful in their own right, and each
one perhaps contributing to the creation of a dissipative structure.
The following is an exploration of the dynamics of a dolphin swim focusing on the above
mentioned interactive forces:

The forces of Nature are a more impersonal force and presence that we must interact with on
it's own terms. We are required to be flexible, present, open to all possibilities, prepared for
anything it presents to us, willing to have it co-create our destinies. In our journeys the biggest
natural presence is water - the ocean as a feminine, mysterious, changeable entity that is like one
huge moving being when we are living on it. It is changeable according to the effects of wind
and sun around and on it, and may or may not be available to us in the way we want it to be.

Cetacean Dynamics (Cetacean's are dolphins, whales, and porpoises). The dolphins offer a very
unusual dynamic to humans. On one hand we are naturally drawn to them because of their sheer
beauty, grace, fluidity, and playfulness. Quite simply, they are a joy to watch.
On the other hand, their sonar frequencies are high enough and powerful enough to alter cell
structure, change brain wave patterns in humans,, and influence emotional and mental states of
being. Together these are a powerful combination, but when you factor in the dynamic of water
- the ocean - you have an even more potent stew. Water is a highly effective conductor, so
whatever happens in a dolphin encounter is amplified in that element much more so than being
on land. The ocean, as an entity in it's own right, carries it's own potent force and energy that
absolutely has an effect on us whether we are aware of it or not.

A final dynamic is that most wild dolphin encounters happen in high energy spots on the planet.
The areas where wild dolphins have made themselves available for up close interactions with
humans are typically places recognized as vortex areas, sacred spots, or "special" places on the
earth, i.e. Hawaii, The Bahamas, the Red Sea, Australia.
Vortex areas - The Bahamas are in a planetary vortex known as the Bermuda Triangle. A vortex is
like an acupuncture point in the earth, a place where cosmic energy moves back and forth into
and out of the physical planet. It is a place where the vibrations are higher compared to other
earth points, and the veils between dimensions are thinner. The triangle is a vortex, but it is an
unstable vortex, meaning there is a "wobble" in how the energies are conducted into and out of
the planet. What this means for us is that there are increased possibilities for reaching
heightened states of awareness, or transcendental states of consciousness, but there are also
increased possibilities for other parts of ourselves to be activated or 'buzzed".

In any situation where you put yourself in the presence of higher vibrational frequencies -
whether in a geographical location, in the presence of a master or guru, through music,
meditation, lovemaking, etc. - you run the risk of activating the shadow in yourself. (The more
light that shines in you, the easier it is to see the darkness.) It is very common for people to have
their ego/emotional body/small mind issues stirred up in high energy places.

Finally, there are the dynamics of the cosmic or spiritual component, the force we might
understand as the Creator, or God, or the Great Spirit, as well as our Higher Self, our guides,
and/or any other non-physical presence that influences our lives and our choices. This is in
addition to the cetacean higher consciousness which, I believe, is a very real presence both on
the planet and in the lives of those who are drawn to them. I always take into serious
consideration the "knowings" each participant is getting from their own inner guidance as well
as from the "call of the dolphins".

Around all that I believe there is a greater influence of Spirit regarding the "karma" of each trip -
who is drawn to come into a particular group, what will the group dynamics be, how will the
dolphins assist in creating the group experience, what will the weather influences be on any
particular trip….In other words, what is the destined experience for each planned trip as each
particular force and each particular person contributes to the greater focus of Spirit. There are
many variables and windows for free will and conscious intention to influence outcomes, but I
do believe there is an over-lighting point and purpose to each journey.

When you look at all these factors, you can see how a dolphin swim experience is an incredible
opportunity for growth, change and transformation. When I look at all these dynamics, I see
that the one force that may not be working in concert with all the others is the lower self, ego,
personality self. It is our will, our fears, and our inability to see with clear sight that can interfere
when these opportunities are presented to us, yet it is these very things that are given the most
opportunity for nurturance and incredible healing on these journeys. Although most people
have ecstatic, life-changing experiences in their swims, it is not uncommon for a dolphin swim
journey to be a weave of amazing and challenging times. There are so many factors that are out
of the facilitator's control that can influence how a swim goes - weather and the presence, or
lack of, dolphins being the biggest. Added to that are a group that is living together, often in
close quarters, where personalities merge and space is tight, unless you enter the water. There is
no where to go to get away from each other, but more importantly there is no where to get
away from yourself. You have the opportunity to face hidden parts of yourself that are ready
for your attention, and it is not always comfortable.

As with any sacred journey, vision quest, pilgrimage, or spiritual path, there is no way to come
through and out of it untouched. You may not know immediately in what ways you have been
transformed, but with presence and patience the beauty of your own path and process will
reveal itself. Know that whether your journey is done with ease and grace, or challenge and
conflict, or some combination of all, you are well cared for and divinely guided. Having done
over 60 of these and other sacred journeys in my lifetime, I know this to be true.

Many blessings on your journey.