Recently, I was having an off day, feeling sad and anxious. My spouse and I headed out to hike in one of our favorite local parks. We both find that getting out in nature often lifts the spirits. We followed one of our usual trails winding among the valley oaks along a dry creek bed. It was a beautiful, sunny day, and in that moment, there was nothing to ponder or worry about.

I was still feeling a heaviness in my heart when we stopped under a tree to catch our breath and enjoy some shade. In that moment, I looked up. Sunlight filtered down through shivering leaves, and then something miraculous happened…I immediately felt better. I stood there for a while breathing and looking up. The tree, the sun, and the sky in that moment were all that I needed.

As we all navigate the challenges in our lives (& the world), I encourage you to get out into nature and explore her wisdom. And don’t forget to look up.