Allow yourself to flow with the flow of nature

These past few days I was in Humboldt County camping at Eel River. I had a blast! I was revived and rejuvenated. Being in nature, taking a break from my routine like life, enjoying myself, waking up by natural lighting, swimming in a natural body of water and ultimately feeling free, having no fences or barriers was very pleasant and impacted me in a positive way. Being surrounded by nature, not worrying about the time or checking my phone, sleeping under the stars, no barriers, free like spirit, enjoying the warmth of a campfire, lying beneath the trees in a hammock, creates true bliss within myself. As I reflect on times of being in nature I realized I am exposed, vulnerable, more able to have a deeper rooted connection with myself and others, having more raw experiences without limitations. I feel free, comfortable, curious and happy. I am able to breath, take a step back, live fully and take the time to examine a situation, make peace with it, and move on quicker. I'm in my right mind, while my head is able to think clearer. It's beautiful and makes life worth living. Nature gives off such a raw energy allowing others and I to feel peace and pleasure. When in nature we are focused on living in the moment, we are exposed to natures beauty and diversity. Which allows us to see the beauty within our selves and appreciate our differences and uniqueness. When in nature, time slows down. Clocks teach us to abandon the natural rhythms of our bodies as we are confined to our ecosystems schedule. The more time we spend in nature we are able to slow down just like the beings around us. Trees and plants growing slowly, animals gazing in the fields, scampering around which is their natural pace. Our culture teaches us that we never have "enough", that we always need more things to live a "happy" life. Nature models harmony and balance. Witnessing this is like salve in the wound of over consumption. Our culture is harmful in the way we strive to live as comfortably as we can, pushing away the tough moments and running away from the difficulties in our lives. Nature calls you back to reality, you can't stop the rain, or set the temperature to the just right degrees. You remember that hardship and lack of control are part of life, and accepting this reality makes it not only bearable, but possible to feel the joy of being alive. We are exposed to death in nature which allows us to be more appreciative of life. Doors open to being able to connect and be one with our spirit, we can discover our true selves and feel the loving presence of Mother Nature.

While spending time in the great outdoors I was able to feel true bliss, rediscover my inner childlike spirit and rejuvenate. I connected with others and myself on a deeper level. One moment that I will always cherish is when a good friend was able to express there emotions. They cried, I was shocked at first and relieved. They have been putting up such a wall and pressure on themselves that made them feel embarrassed, weak and powerless when they cried. They held back troubling times and the pain grew, which finally came out. The flood gates opened. I am appreciative of this moment which has also created hope within me for this friend. We were able to bond when they opened up and shared there pain and experiences. It was intense and sad listening to them cry but I am so grateful for this moment. Just a reminder everyone... It's totally okay to cry!! Personally I think that expressing our emotions and sharing our stories and pain is when we shine our most and are our strongest. It takes some time to understand and live by, but trust me crying is good and allows us to heal!!

I arrived home, I walked inside the house and was flooded with sadness and a sense of hopelessness. I was reminded of my "daily life". It was hard and upsetting coming back home, I had to adjust. It will take time but now looking back on it I have realized that we must leave room and take the time to pause, take a break, and enjoy ourselves. Everybody deserves to be happy and feel true bliss. It is in these little, life long re memorable experiences that I cherish, hold close to my heart and live for. No matter how much we think we don't deserve to be loved, cared about, or live longer because of how bad we messed up. We all deserve to be loved, cared for, to live the life that has been given to us no matter the suffering we have experienced or the pain we put through others. Forgiveness is key and is one of the answers to an enjoyable life. Forgive yourselves and others, take care of your bodies, they are our temples while living this life. Hug yourself and share your love for others with yourself. Treat yourself like you would want to be treated by others. Allow your self to rejuvenate under our worlds beaming sun, bright stars, tall, kind, trees, flowing waters and the gracious love and good energy this world has to offer.

Much love, peace, and dogs,

Sarah :)