I was fortunate enough to spend the last two days in Napa Valley with my husband and no kids (thank you Aunt Maria & Uncle Rob!). Don’t get me wrong, I love my kids and I love hanging out with them.  But, as every parent knows, it’s good to get a break once in a while and just be a couple again.  As we were driving away from our usual crazy-busy life, getting further and further from home, I couldn’t help but feel like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders.  As we entered into wine country, I felt a sense of calm come over me despite the rain pouring down.  Actually, I think the rain might have contributed to it as there’s nothing like the meditative sound of rain drops on the roof of your car in perfect harmony with the swish of the windshield wipers and not having to be anywhere in a hurry.

The beauty of the vineyards with green rolling hills as its backdrop is certainly a sight to behold.  It reminded me of how I always feel great whenever I’m surrounded by nature and its beauty.  I’m certain I’m not alone feeling that way.  So it just made sense to include this in our blog series.  One of the best, no-money fun things to do is to go out into nature and be part of it.  So the tip for today is to go out into nature and feel how you begin to unwind.  Use the opportunity to clear your head of any stressful thoughts if you’re alone or reconnect with a family member or friend by going with someone who is special to you.

Here are a few places off the top of my head that always create a sense of calm in me and hopefully will do the same for you.

Remember to leave your cluttered mind at home.

1.      There’s nothing like hiking through a redwood forest and taking in all its quiet and mightiness.  Actually any forest will do but redwoods are so majestic it’s practically impossible not to be impressed and awed by the wonders of nature while you’re among them.

2.      Sit on a rock by a still lake, skimming stones or near a rugged coast, taking in the motion and sound of the waves crashing to the shore.

3.      If there is snow where you are, consider taking a walk at night especially if it’s snowing outside.  There’s something about being outside at night in the middle of winter that’s very calming if you can quiet your mind and take in the stillness of the night.

4.      Find yourself a place, away from city lights at night and gaze at the stars.  The sheer wonderment of the universe will put the minor stresses of life into perspective.

If for some reason you are unable to do any of these things but have something equally effective, please share with the group.  Something unrelated to nature but equally awe-inspiring is to read to a child.  Most children love to be read to and as a result you will also experience the joy.

Want to read more?

Day 1: Motivation
Day 2: Just Breathe
Day 3: Back to Basics with Your Health
Day 4: Giving is Receiving
Day 5: Planning One Day at a Time
Day 6: Just A Spoonful of Sugar
Day 7: Positive Thoughts, Positive Outcomes
Day 8: Filter That Water
Day 9: Yoga At Your Computer
Day 10: Look Your Best, Feel Your Best, Be Your Best
Day 11: Be Alert and Stay Safe
Day 12: Giving Back To The Community Starts At Home
Day 13: Reach For That Pomegranate
Day 14: Breathing and Posture
Day 15:  Detox Your Finances
Day 16: Take Time For Entertainment
Day 17: Detox Your Skin
Day 18: Laugh It Up
Day 19: Live In The Moment
Day 20: Mind Your Chin
Day 21: De-clutter Your Life
Day 22: Detox Your Social Circle
Day 23: Blowing The Budget
Day 24: Balancing Work And Family
Day 25: Merry Christmas!
Day 26: Meditate And Get Results
Day 27: Detox The Earth, Detox Your Life