I must confess to feeling a little sheepish about not ‘producing’ during this last little writing break. But the reality is I have given myself permission to enjoy an action filled summer!
Last summer I could hardly do much of anything with four broken bones in my right foot. So this summer I am making up for it by enjoying as many outdoor activities as I possibly can. Every day I try to do something ‘fun’ outside.
I am very fortunate to be in a location where I can hike, mountain bike, canoe, kayak, stand-up paddle board, star gaze, sit around a campfire or jump into a cool glacier fed lake. For me, playing outside on a regular basis keeps me healthy, balanced and feeds my soul.
My soul is also fed by exploring the remote back-country of the southern Chilcotin Mountains. There is nothing quite like flying into an alpine lake and then hiking out through meadows full of wild flowers or scrambling up and along mountain ridges. It is on these day long solo adventures that my mind eventually empties itself and I start to experience more clarity of thought.
When my thoughts are more settled I can begin to contemplate many broader life questions of purpose, goals and directions. These higher thoughts reconnect me to my true spirit, how I want to live my life and who I really want to be. I do know, for me, this process is helped along by being immersed in the beauty and wonder of the natural world.
Nature has always provided a safe space for me to pause, reflect, re-energize which then helps me to create, change, and re-create my life. I have found that time spent daily outside serves me well during times of transition. And so with a lot of summer left to enjoy and a lot of decisions yet to ponder, I will continue to ‘recreate’ in many outdoor activities knowing that time in nature always continually contributes to my ‘re-creation’.
What has everyone else been up to this summer?
July 8, 2013
Taking time out to do what you love sounds very sane and healthy. I continue to be inspired by your wisdom and courage. On that note, I will also take some time out and connect with what I love: roller blading and kick-ass exercise.
July 8, 2013
Kick-ass exercise … Lynn rock on!!
July 8, 2013
Go Carol Go. In two weeks i will be enjoying similar forces with five days of hiking and one day of kayaking at Gros Morne on the western coast of Newfoundland. I am so looking forward to being consumed by the spirit, of one of Canada’s natural treasures.
July 8, 2013
May you over serve your spirit … and would love to hear about it on your return!
July 8, 2013
Hi – great to see you are doing well and enjoying life. Just back from Paris, France and have to admit I am looking forward to camping…less hussle bussle. All is good…
July 8, 2013
Yes camping is a great way to unhustle the bustle!
July 8, 2013
Next weekend kayaking for 2 days have 5km swim race and 24 hr swim relay coming up
July 9, 2013
Sharon you continually amaze me with all the ultra events you throw yourself into … way to go!
July 9, 2013
Ditto your post!
Long road rides in the Okanagan for Canada day weekend 380km over 3 days!
Gnarly black diamond trails on my mountain bike in the North Shore mountains after work.
But hope to be back in the Chilcotins for some long mountain bike rides soon!
July 9, 2013
No flies on you Claire! Stop by for a visit soon.