Recharging my soul by the beach as I adjust to the US once again
Dancing Elephants Press Prompt week 44 of 52 — Observations
I’m most at peace when I’m by the water. When I can hear the ocean waves and smell the saltwater in the air, my overall senses are heightened, including observing what’s around me.
In the past, I’ve been known to be pretty unobservant and live a bit too much in my mind. I’m working on that. ❤
In response to this writing prompt, I’m digging a bit deeper to reflect on how and what I observe:
Write a story or use images showing how you observe things around you or within you. What do you see when you pay attention? — Dr. Gabriella Korosi
The morning dew on the grass sticks a bit to my feet as I walk with my flip-flops on through the grass. It’s not quite hot outside yet, but the air is thick with humidity in the southeastern part of the US in the summer.
I suppose my observations are a bit more pronounced now than when I’m usually here at my parent's house. It’s because I’ve been living abroad for almost two years in Norway, which is a lot different.
I wonder how long these mushrooms have been growing. I don’t remember them from the last time I lived here. My parents can’t tell me when they started appearing. Are they edible? I’m not sure. But I like mushrooms and think they look pretty cool in the yard.
The windchimes hanging outside the house make noise with the gentle breeze in the air. I notice a nest of wasps that we have to take down.
There is a semi-useful garden of sorts on the porch with baby tomatoes peeking through. I’ve never had a green thumb, but it seems nice to grow your own food.
Most of the time, I don’t really think about what’s there besides looking for potential obstacles as I walk by. But this time, I try to savor it all and compare it to my life in Norway.
I’ve also noticed a lot more about myself in this time. I’ve become more observant of the fact that I need more quiet time when I used to be energized by people and excitement. It’s almost like now I need to recharge my soul by spending quiet time alone.
The best place for me to do that is on the beach. I’ve already been twice in the week since I got back.
I think best and feel the most free here. It’s also a great place to practice mindfulness and observation because you can watch the waves, people and dog watch, and dig your toes into the sand (which I find relaxing).
This prompt is a reminder to move slowly and appreciate what we have.
If we’re always in a rush to get to the next place, then we can miss the beauty and joy in our present moment.
A lesson I’m continually teaching myself.
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