First time out
One of the perks of COVID-19 has been my frequent walks in nature. This is one of the only socially acceptable activities I can do to keep physical while blowing off some steam. A whole new appreciation for the outside world has emerged since my everyday routine has been limited to the walls of my home, waiting for this virus to run its course.
In my early teen years I was introduced to this trail near my Mom's old dental office she worked at. Back then, walking in nature felt forced. When my mom would say " Let's go for a walk" nothing but resent, frustration and teenage angst would mumble through my less than enthusiastic "sure" response.
Like every old person ever, I now have an evolved appreciation for walking and being outside. Not only has my childhood walks given me fantastically toned calves, but I feel grounded, happy and lighter after being surrounded by building tall trees and creek melodies. There are different feelings I have walking alone in nature vs. with friends or family; both therapeutic but in polarizing ways. I walk alone to gain clarity, recharge and ground myself with gratitude and appreciation. I walk with others to connect and feel happy. The endorphins don't hurt either.
The day I decided to take the sweater out for her first ride was on the exact walk I have been on many times before in the trail my mom showed me years ago. April's weather provided me the perfect temperature to wear her while hiking with Cody, my boyfriend. I felt happy to walk side by side, even after my embarrassing huff and puffs post the big hill portion (it never gets easier). I believe my first time wearing her was positive, because she caught me spending time with a loved one while prioritizing my mental and physical health during a confusing, stress inducing pandemic. It is so easy to get drained with negativity and hysteria, and I am proud of myself for not succumbing to this and practicing faith over fear. Faithful that times will get better, that this is all happening for a reason and that I am doing everything I can to ride the wave ~.
In my early teen years I was introduced to this trail near my Mom's old dental office she worked at. Back then, walking in nature felt forced. When my mom would say " Let's go for a walk" nothing but resent, frustration and teenage angst would mumble through my less than enthusiastic "sure" response.
Like every old person ever, I now have an evolved appreciation for walking and being outside. Not only has my childhood walks given me fantastically toned calves, but I feel grounded, happy and lighter after being surrounded by building tall trees and creek melodies. There are different feelings I have walking alone in nature vs. with friends or family; both therapeutic but in polarizing ways. I walk alone to gain clarity, recharge and ground myself with gratitude and appreciation. I walk with others to connect and feel happy. The endorphins don't hurt either.
The day I decided to take the sweater out for her first ride was on the exact walk I have been on many times before in the trail my mom showed me years ago. April's weather provided me the perfect temperature to wear her while hiking with Cody, my boyfriend. I felt happy to walk side by side, even after my embarrassing huff and puffs post the big hill portion (it never gets easier). I believe my first time wearing her was positive, because she caught me spending time with a loved one while prioritizing my mental and physical health during a confusing, stress inducing pandemic. It is so easy to get drained with negativity and hysteria, and I am proud of myself for not succumbing to this and practicing faith over fear. Faithful that times will get better, that this is all happening for a reason and that I am doing everything I can to ride the wave ~.
I couldn't have imagined a better first day for her. So much love, thoughtfulness and fresh air to keep her well. This pandemic has caused alot of confusion yet the Earth still turns and we all grow and change too.
ReplyDeleteLove this post! So excited for my turn for the sweater. A great reminder when we're wearing it that our loved ones are always with us, especially during unprecedented times like these.
ReplyDelete