We were recently in Yosemite and as usual, the grandeur and beauty just takes your breath away and just leaves you feeling so relaxed, calm and totally inspired and ready for anything and everything! And I was reminded of the wonderful words of John Muir, naturalist, author, Sierra club founder and early advocate of preservation of wilderness in the United States.
This is one quote I’ve always loved… it was actually on our wedding invite!:
“Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop away from you like the leaves of Autumn.”
And this one really resonates with me too:
“Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out going to the mountains is going home; that wilderness is a necessity…”
You can read more of his wonderful quotes here.
John Muir was a wise man! Listen to his words and go and do something fun this weekend – outside! It doesn’t have to be Yosemite or any big destination – any nature and anywhere green, with or without water, can give you immediate joy! If you’re prone to the winter blues, it will lift your mood. If you’re feeling stressed or anxious it will calm you. If you’re tired it will invigorate you.
We have had no rain here for ages and it’s been lovely and sunny – which has been great as we fix up a few things around our new home. We painted the deck a lovely Navajo Red color and it’s so lovely to sit and eat lunch out there and catch some warm rays. And we’ve been gardening. Yes gardening, not doing yard work – my mom says “it’s the garden not the yard!” We have a LOT of trees and a LOT of leaves – which means a great workout picking them all up. I rake and do squats and it sure beats going to the gym because I’m outside. If we can’t get away on the weekend, this counts too…
Where will you go? And where is your favorite place in nature?
Wow, great quotes Trudy. Thanks for sharing. John Muir was a wise man!
Glad you enjoyed them Debbie!
Thanks Trudy… It’s such a breathtakingly beautiful day here in Austin, the outdoors is calling to me! My favorite places outdoors are walking through the woods, or being up high with a spectacular view…and I also love formal gardens…
It’s great to be reminded to connect with Nature on a regular basis – it’s good for the soul!
Barbara
It’s a beautiful day here too! sunny and very warm for December! I also love views! Interesting about the formal gardens…I must say I love colorful flowers ! I enjoyed some amazing formal gardens in the UK but haven’t been to any for ages.
Trudy
Trudy,
Our favorite place to be one with nature and at peace is at the beach by the ocean. We will not be there this week.
One day soon we will need to get there, no matter the weather.
Mitch
Mitch – I must say I love the ocean too. I grew up on the east coast of South Africa and the beaches there are incredible!
Trudy
I think reconnecting with the outside world is a wonderful thing, especially this time of year. There is nothing better to boost your energy and spirits. Happy 2012!
and to you Carmen!