I wasn’t sure about what to present in my blog today. In the past two weeks I have experienced a variety of events affecting me directly and personally, or indirectly through our society and culture. A lot is going on in our world, much that is upsetting. I could have written about resilience, or understanding how I learn from setbacks, or from successes. None of these topics rang true for today. On my daily walk-jog with my two dogs, I realized what I wanted to write about, finding and cultivating one’s personal oasis.
I am fortunate that I grew up on a farm. I remember spending my days outside exploring fields, woods, and streams. I also remember that when I was upset about something, probably something that seemed consequential at the time, but is now difficult to remember or take seriously, I went for a walk through the fields and woods. I would wander around the farm until I felt calm and collected, and then I would return home.
A few years ago I began taking my dog or dogs for an extended walk before our breakfast. I found it renewing and energizing. Quickly I learned to cherish this time, and to find ways to fit it into each day. At some point, I put together why this new habit was so compelling for me. I realized the connection to my early experiences and habits. I had learned then how to take in and benefit from the natural world to ground and soothe myself.
When out on our early exercise-walk, every time is uniquely different from every other time. There may be new bird songs, or new plants emerging, new flowers, or changed foliage. The clouds are different every day and the light changes throughout the seasons. The snow has different textures and depths. I return to my sense of child-like wonder and it refreshes me.
My personal oasis will not be exactly like yours. But I do believe that we can each benefit from cultivating one. If you are not aware of yours, reflect on what helps you recharge that does not require substances, or media! Perhaps it is gardening, swimming, journaling, or hiking with friends. During these stressful times, it is important that we have these oases. I believe that they help us to get in touch with a personal sense of grounding, and in turn, to then face challenges in our lives and make wiser choices and decisions.