Stress. Noise. Pollution. Anxiety. Violence. Madness. Who hasn't experienced them?
We currently live in a world with a plethora of unexpected disruptions and escalating problems. In a second's notice, they happen to us frequently. These unavoidable scenarios could suddenly appear out of nowhere from ordinary activities, work-related efforts, or random events from our daily grind. It's a pity some of us aren't ready to handle such abrupt challenges.
What if everything begins to pile up and eventually overwhelm you? What would you do? Do you wait until undesirable outcomes like fatigue, sickness, burnout, and insanity creep into your system?
"No way!" you say. "There has to be an escape!"
Search for your Peaceful Place
It's crucial to have your special spot to enjoy the serenity - to retreat to a location where you can calm down and exit life's demanding responsibilities. Ample rest is vital to recapture your drained energy. Or else, it's merely impossible to deal with the continuous demands and pressures ahead.
Having a specific place to relax and surrender all your cares, worries plus fears is not only healthy but also necessary for most of us. Authentic peace of mind commences with a physical place of tranquility.
There was a time in my professional career when I almost had it all. Fat salary, executive privileges, employment benefits - you name it. Aside from the stress that came with the job, these perks provided me with an enjoyable and successful lifestyle.
On the contrary, clueless that misfortune was lurking in the neighborhood, my employing organization suddenly suffered a financial recession. And unfortunately, I was one of those who had to go. That left me devastated and it was certainly difficult for me to accept my fate. I took it personally. Because I felt rejected, it deteriorated my physical well-being and mental condition to the point of over-thinking, developing inferiority-complex, and trembling with anxiety.
"How am I going to survive?" I kept harboring this restless attitude for as long as I can remember.
Nowadays, for most of our society's working-class patrons, getting terminated and losing your only means of livelihood would spell "The End".
However, not for me.
It's Okay to be Alone
But not lonely. I mean being in physical solitude doesn't have to be done because you hate the company of other people. It was just my way of focusing more attention on myself.
Besides, I was surrounded by family, friends, and loved ones who were truly concerned about me. As much as they were sincere in extending their support for my recovery, I strongly desired to go away, take a much-needed break, and just be all by myself.
"To be honest, I just want to be alone, to recharge!" That's what I told them while wiping the tears from my eyes.
I tried multiple options when it came to finding my ideal peaceful place. A few of them included checking-in alone in cozy city hotels, traveling alone to unfamiliar destinations where I didn't know anyone, and experimenting with all sorts of available medical therapies.
As crazy as it sounds, these methods were also instrumental in improving my weakening state, Yet, I wasn't completely convinced and satisfied. There was something else I was looking for.
The Healing Power of Mother Nature
At the end of the day, our vibrant natural environment was surprisingly my hero! I had an instant connection with Mother Nature - her restorative force rescued me immediately from further decay. I could write an entire book enumerating the various benefits she can provide us in terms of health, well-being, and productivity. The advantages simply outweigh the disadvantages.
Here are some of the rejuvenating locations where I found relaxing solitude, authentic serenity, and effective recuperation:
I enjoyed being in the presence of trees and other friendly green giants of nature. These gentle creatures can usually be experienced in gardens and parks. But the best ones are those found in deep forests or uninhabited woods.
Did you know that hugging a tree increases your levels of oxytocin? This human hormone is responsible for the sense of calmness and emotional bonding. How cool is that?
Ahhh…sun, sea, and sand! How I miss the beach!
This is my personal favorite.
Bodies of water like lakes, oceans, and seas with their corresponding ecological shorelines deliver the following healing effects:
• Elimination of stress and pure relaxation
• Rejuvenation and improvement of our immune system
• Enhancement of sleep and breathing patterns
• Decrease of depression and easing of mood
• Cure for skin diseases
The soothing sound of running water is music to my ears!
It's a known fact that water is the universal elixir of life. The mere sight and sound of aquatic environments like a waterfall sparks a deep biological bridge with us and triggers a fast response in our brains. It causes a flow of neurochemicals that are responsible for improved blood circulation, wellness, and relaxation.
Thus, it's not a surprise why some people build their homes close to these wonders of nature!
Where is your Space of Tranquility?
I call these marvelous creations of the natural environment my "sacred spaces". They're where I can really reflect, relax, meditate, and revive my dilapidated condition back to normal.
Do we have to wait until the end of our lives until we can "rest in peace"? Or would it be much better to "exist in peace" today? - storiesoferne
With this, I can finally say that I've truly stayed away from the chaos!
#Hive, have you discovered your peaceful place?
So much of this resonated for me, @storiesoferne (and thanks to @discoveringarni for shouting out about it on Twitter, since I'm wicked behind on my Hive feed!). I was lucky enough to grow up in an oceanside town, so I consider any place that I can get my toes in the sand and feel the salt air on my face to be sacred. I even have a picture I took a few years ago as my phone wallpaper, so I can keep the ocean close to me even though I live in the woods now...lol!
Thank you for this beautiful reminder, and hope you're having a peaceful Monday!
Hi @traciyork! Your beach photo is absolutely stunning! You captured the ideal moment, froze the sea waves in a memorable frame, and as a result, created a phone wallpaper that's soothing to the senses!
I'd do anything to live by the beach. I'm delighted you had the time of your life to enjoy one of nature's awesome and sacred gifts. You may not be residing by the seaside anymore, but you're still blessed to be close to the healing effects of the natural environment. Authentic tranquility can still be experienced in the woods - happy for you! 😀
Special thanks also to @discoveringarni for spreading the good vibes!
Thanks for the mention. 😊 You are so lucky indeed to have spent your early years in a town by the ocean and now in nature as well. Have a blessed week!
This is a wonderful #thoughtfuldailypost my friend.
Love this message... I would implore upon you to create a habit of sourcing your work; any photos, content, or etc. The concept of plagiarism is very (sadly) used on the Blockchain.
I would not want your wonderful energy misconstrued by anyone. Much love my friend ❤ !tip
Thank you so much @wesphilbin my friend! Indeed, that thought has awakened me to the painful realities of life. No need to feel the guilty regret of the past or anxiety for the future. The perfect time to be happy and peaceful is now!
I'm grateful too for your sincere support and advice. Here's to the best always! 😀
@storiesoferne,
Thank you my friend. As always, look forward to seeing your next post👍
🎁 Hi @storiesoferne! You have received 0.1 HIVE tip from @wesphilbin!
Check out @wesphilbin blog here and follow if you like the content :)
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Thank you, that's much appreciated!
@tipu curate
Conversely...
I've also shared your story in my #thoughtfuldailypost channel at the @theterminal Discord Group... ✌🤟
It's my great pleasure @wesphilbin to support your advocacy #thoughtfuldailypost! Your movement helps in making our world a much better place. Therefore, I'm for that! Take care...😀
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Beautifully written, Erne.
"There was a time in my professional career when I almost had it all. Fat salary, executive privileges, employment benefits - you name it. Aside from the stress that came with the job, these perks provided me with an enjoyable and successful lifestyle." -
I could very much relate with that after transitioning to being a stay at home Mom, especially at a time like this. The lifestyle change creates a dent in our self confidence, unless we are completely detached from everything.
Having gone through an online workshop recently, I realized that sometimes we have to make sacrifices in order to pursue what is more valuable to us. I chose my family and even though I may not be able to afford the comfortable lifestyle I used to have and some of my relatives think I was crazy to give it up, I strongly believe it was the best decision. Being with family and nature are my peaceful haven.
Yes Arni, that happens to all of us. And as much as we try to create the kind of life for ourselves, there's a Higher Power at work here. We may not be able to control all the circumstances but placing our full trust in Him gives us the real peace we need. He knows what's best for us.
We just have to make the best of everything we have by considering them as blessings. This mindset has rescued me from depression and has offered me the serenity I've always wanted. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
Amen to that, Erne! Beautifully said.
Enjoyed reading it man 👨
Well written and pictures speak for themselves.
Hello @nathanmars! Many thanks man! I'm happy my post has brightened your day. Have a brilliant one!
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I enjoyed reading your post. My peaceful place has always been in the mountains. No matter how tiring the climb is, it's always worth it that's why I keep coming back.
That's true @kayceeports2020! The mountains with its green environment, lush landscapes, and natural features also have their unique magic when it comes to delivering serenity. I'm glad you found your peaceful place!
What a BEAUTIFULLY powerful post. There is SO much value in this piece! !tip
Thank you so much @jaynie for your appreciation and kindness! I’m glad my post has touched you. It’s my humble way of helping others embrace a better life.
Have a lovely one! 😁
🎁 Hi @storiesoferne! You have received 0.1 HIVE tip from @jaynie!
@jaynie wrote lately about: Share Your Hive Tweets & Win The Post Earnings! - Twitter Tuesday (Round 1) Feel free to follow @jaynie if you like it :)
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This is awesome and somewhat sad as I'm sure a lot of people didn't take the time to enjoy the solace of nature pre-covid. Great photos too!
As a matter of fact, nature’s deterioration has slowed down because covid in a way decreased the spread of harmful pollution caused by careless human activities. It’s not too late and this is a wake-up call for us to value Mother Nature before she completely disappears.
Thank you @enginewitty for the compliment and for sharing your feelings!