Current Mood: Sore
"I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in tune once more." - John Burroughs
After a 6 mile run along the Kapalua Coastal Trail on Friday and another 7 mile hike through the ridges of Pu'u Kukui yesterday, my legs hate me! But, I have recently rediscovered my love for hiking! I haven't had a gym membership in over a year, and my workouts include You Tube yoga sessions in my living room/ bedroom. There is absolutely nothing like hiking or running outside along a trail. This rediscovery is the perfect addition to what I'd like to call my wellness reboot! When I hike, there are limited distractions, those being birds, beautiful plants and the occasional stream. I can clear my mind and focus on one thing at a time, like the natural beauty that surrounds me on a daily basis. After a hike through the woods or a run along the coast, my body feels fresh, yet fatigued. My mind is calm, yet buzzing. Breathing fresh air purifies the body and promotes increased oxygen intake.
Yesterday's hike, which we had never done before, begins with a meditative walk through beautiful banyan trees. As I walk, I feel the earth beneath my feet and let it ground me. We wind around a muddy path under the shade of pine trees, ferns, coffee beans and hundreds of other plant species. We come to a hill which provides an opening where we stop and turn to take in the view of the landscape below us. The trees and plants are so interesting here. Trees so tall, so aged, so full of knowledge, I wonder what stories they have to tell.
The landscape changes multiple times. Every elevation brings a different type of tree. Then suddenly we're surrounded by pineapple plants! Nature is my key source for inspiration. If I'm in a creative rut or feeling off and anxious, the first thing I do is step outside and immerse myself in the beauty of our planet. The smell of fresh air or the sight of mountains sparks something inside me and I immediately feel balanced. Hiking has an incredible set of perks: beautiful scenery and numerous physical and mental benefits. If you ever need a little wellness boost, get outside and go for a hike! Make time to step outside and walk through nature whenever you can. Let your mind wander along with your body, but make a point to pay attention to whatever pieces of life you come across. Study the shape of a leaf or the sound of the wind. Be silent and let yourself be calmed and freed by the earth beneath your feet.
"Keep close to nature's heart... and break clear away, once in a while, and climb a mountain, or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean." - John Muir