I went on a road trip with my family to a quiet little town by the waterfront. Now, you're probably asking yourself these questions: A road trip? Is corona virus gone? Did I not get the memo? But don’t worry. We were being very safe. I’m in Toronto at the moment and they are at stage 3 of their provincial reopening. So most business places and public spaces have reopened. They are slowly trying to put an end to their lock down. So, travel in small groups is allowed. We also mainly stayed in the car, and when we weren't in the car, we wore our masks and social distanced.
Cabin Fever is Real
Now, let’s talk about what led to this slightly impromptu need for open waters. Firstly, surprisingly, cabin fever is a real thing, don’t let anyone tell you differently. Well, at least I think so. Medical News Today says, ‘cabin fever describes the psychological symptoms that people may experience when they are unable to leave their home and engage in social interaction.’ Health Line also describes cabin fever as ‘a series of negative emotions and distressing sensations people may face if they’re isolated or feeling cut off from the world.’ Sounds to me like this just described everyone’s corona virus lock down period. Doesn't it? Or was it just me?
Self- Isolation after travel
Anyhow, on my part, after a semi lock down in Japan, I came to Canada, where I had to self-isolate for two weeks in a hotel. During which, I wasn’t allowed to go outside or be in physical contact with anyone. So that was back to back lock down for me. Food was delivered to my door at the hotel. While food that I ordered from restaurants was left at my door, with a quick knock to alert me that it had arrived. It was a weird time.
That Introvert Life
At first the introvert in me was rejoicing at the prospect of being alone in a hotel room for two weeks just relaxing. And to be fair, those first few days were great. I read and watched TV, and did some writing. But after about the first week, I started craving the outside. Fresh, ‘un-recycled’ air and nature walks filled my dreams. I know, I’m a simple girl. Give me some fresh air, some nature with a side of comfort and I’m yours.
A new start can be scary
Honestly, under normal circumstances, I think I could’ve handled the isolation quite fine. But the problem was that, along with the confinement, I was also wrestling my own demons. I had just traveled halfway around the world to make a new start, so my mind was unsettled. I was already in full overthinking mode. So, adding two weeks of quarantine time and isolation was not ideal. That was just too much free time. My mind wandered. There was the overthinking, and planning for the future.
Change is scary, especially in an ongoing pandemic. Why would anyone uproot their lives in the midst of a pandemic? Who does that? Crazy people. Me, I guess. Suffice it to say, I was happy when those two weeks were done, and I was able to get out of that room and escape being alone with my thoughts.
The Healing Wonders of Nature
Firstly, I'm a strong believer in the healing powers of nature. Read about its many benefits here. So, when I finally got to my family’s home and I heard they were going to the beach, I quickly jumped at the chance to tag along. And I’m so glad I did. Just driving along, the scenic and peaceful country roads were enough to set my mind at ease. I could feel myself receiving the natural healing I needed. It was so good I could feel my mind slowly clearing as I received each gift from nature.
The air
Breathing the fresh air, it felt so crisp and clean, a little less polluted than it does in the city. It was also much quieter from the recent reduction in travel. We then stopped by a Farmer’s Market to buy fresh produce and flowers for the house. So, we were blessed with the lovely fragrance of the flowers and their beauty as we continued our journey.
The scenery
I got an eyeful of the beauty of nature as well from the trees, flowers and greenery we slowly passed as we drove down the near empty streets. We also stopped to take photos whenever inspiration hit. In that moment I felt worry free. We even saw some horses running free on a ranch. Our hearts were full. It was glorious.
Then we arrived at our destination, a picturesque little town by the lakeside. There we had our lunch and relaxed for the rest of the day. I didn’t pack a swimsuit, but we all still went down to the waters to get our feet wet. The water was cold but nice.
The sunset
At the end of our day, we waited for the crowning glory of the trip. The quintessential sunset by the beach moment. We sat on the rocks and waited patiently. We were determined not to leave without seeing it. It took a little while for it to reveal itself to us, but it was an easy wait. And a worthwhile one, for we were certainly not disappointed. Nature rewarded us with a luxurious splendor of a sunset.
Beautiful isn’t it.
Realization
In the sun kissed glow of the evening, I compared that sunset to my life. I came to the realization that just as we waited patiently for that sunset to reveal itself, maybe I should also give myself time to find my next role and let my life unfold. I should trust that it will soon reveal itself to me. According to a very good book, the Bible, ‘do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.’ Instead, I will enjoy the present as much as possible, while I prepare for the future. I will take more time to smell the flowers, enjoy the fresh air and of course appreciate the beautiful sunsets. I know with COVID 19 cases still ongoing, many of us have a lot that is weighing on our minds. But if any of my readers out there are wrestling with a big decision, still remember to be gentle with yourselves and give yourself the time you need to figure things out. Life is about enjoying the moments in between.
Thank you, Keera. I’m glad you liked it.
Hey Kim, you did it again, nice piece of elaborate writing, it's like I was there with you😊