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Everyone has their “happy place”- the place where you journey to in your mind (or go to) when you want to escape your normal day to day. For a few it is a childhood memory, for some a vacation destination where memories have been made, and for others a simple spot where you can visit effortlessly. It is a subjective notion, but in the simplest terms, it elicits true contentment and peace.
This idea of a “happy place” can also sometimes be called a “thin space.” And while I have only recently been introduced to this Celtic term, it takes the idea of a “happy place” to a higher level and explains the moments in life where the distance between heaven and earth collapses. More than just physically seeing the places we hold most dear, experiencing this “thin space” concept, goes beyond the limits of our 5 senses.
Whatever you choose to call it, I encourage you to go on the quest to find yours. For me, as an adult restarting on a new chapter of my life, with my priorities shifting and encountering a readmittance into life beyond “mommy”; I have just been gifted with the opportunity to have found my own, new “happy place.” I will paint the best picture I can of what I recently discovered, for all those who are in search of theirs or for those who just like to wander.
For starters, and most notably, the air itself in my new “happy place” is incredible. Within hours upon arrival, I think I was breathing easier than I ever knew I could. I felt energized and focused and my blood pressure lowered. Any level of stress and any anxiety I was feeling seemed to slowly dissipate as well. Being submerged by nature, with forests and lakes abound, seemed to give off an invisible yet bewildering energy. A calm, peaceful feeling where things are slow and serene and purposeful. I felt surrounded by an understated and unapologetic beauty, in every direction, for as far as the eye could see. In a word, I stood in complete awe.
Stunning landscapes were met with picture perfect post card details from every angle, and at every different time of the passing day. The ways in which the light hit the water and the vast rugged terrain made me catch my breath more than a few times. I made sure to take pictures to remember for later, but also took many mental photographs throughout my stay. I paid attention to the colors, the flowers, the animals, and the new sounds around me- even when it was silent.
The people I met were humble and unassuming. I do not know if they even realized how lucky they were to live where they do. They were just proud to be there and to share it with me, and anyone else. I listened very carefully to those I encountered, who reminded me why I was in a special place. The beauty and the grace of our surroundings made for an easy conversation, but the stories they chose to share heightened what I had already been witness to. The spoke of how they had gotten there and what they had found along the way. I felt as though I was being let in on small secrets to keep.
I will add to all of this, that I was not even in search of what I had found. Happiness comes in different ways and is most valuable when it comes to us unexpectedly. I guess that is the best part. My “happy place” is a place I never knew existed or what would fit a normal standard of being praiseworthy (for myself). It, however, opened my eyes to a new perspective, in a place I never anticipated learning about or ever traveling to.
We get a handful of gifts as we age and the moments that move us seem fewer and more far between. Life is fluid and can change course at any given time. For me, stumbling upon this “happy place” or “thin space” has been one of those stand out, important moments. For those of you who do not have to leave, you have been blessed- and for myself, I will count the days until I can go back.
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