On a recent visit to the big city, my daughter and I spent time in town as she wanted to do some shopping. This is not one of my favourite activities as I always know how it will end up making me feel. Not knowing where to drive, trying to find a carpark, walking on hard concrete pavements, the unnatural lighting inside stores, the noise, hustle and bustle. But it was her weekend away so to please her, we pursued the shops. Only after just an hour I already felt myself shift into a different state – tired, hot, sore eyes, sore head, shallow breathing, feeling frustrated. Luckily my girl agreed so we cut the shopping trip short and head to the beach. Just seeing the dunes even before I got out of the car was a welcome relief and I knew that I would feel much better.
Fresh air, a slight breeze, bare feet in the sand, the smell of salt, the sound of the waves. This to me was the perfect remedy. And even Miss 11 agreed that she also felt better after a walk and 100 cartwheels.
I am always fascinated by the physical and mental changes that these two environments have on me. I would love to be able to measure it so see what is happening to my blood pressure, my heart rate, my breathing, my stress levels, etc…..another day.