Finding My Summer Vibe

I’m about to head into the summer which means little to no technology, plenty of nature, and almost no mirrors.

Canoeing on Squam Lake

These three things help me reboot like nothing else. How often in our world today do we set down our phones and technology and spend time focusing on the people around us and our surroundings? It’s so important for us to be incredibly mindful of ourselves and our world. It’s a time to close down social media, hand write letters (a SHOCKING thought I’m sure to most), and practice our active listening. I dare you to take an hour today, just one hour and set down your phone, your tablet, laptop, etc., and just listen. To yourself, your breathing, the world around you. Whether it’s traffic outside or the sound of birds, think about all the things that impact how you live and the way we impact how others live.

There is nature everywhere, even if you live in a bustling city, there are birds, plants (weeds maybe), and other wildlife you see every day, but don’t always notice. I thankfully live in a place where I’m constantly surrounded by incredible wildlife. I’ve seen woodchucks on the reg this spring, little babies and an adorable giant fatty that I definitely thought was a beaver at first! The trees finally turned a vibrant green a month ago, and the flowers are still blooming (as are my allergies). I wake up to the sound of the birds and fall asleep to the sound of crickets and peepers. The lake is glassy and fog covered in the mornings giving way to a BVD, a beautiful Vermont Day, of sunshine and joy. Find joy in the nature you have, maybe it’s a plant in your room or a tree outside your window and let it fill you up with wonder.

L to R: Blair, Morgan, Helen, Sara, Madga

When we get ourselves away from mirrors, our mirrors become the smiles, the thoughtful looks, and the hugs we receive from the people around us. In our normal day to day, we get too carried away in the way we look. Focusing on any “flaws” we might have or if our clothes and hair look a certain way. But without mirrors we focus on how we FEEL and how we can make others feel. Just by sharing a smile with a friend or a stranger you can make their day so much brighter than you ever can looking in the mirror.

So I dare you...turn away from your mirrors and phones and looks towards your friends and family. Stop, look, and listen to the world around you and appreciate all that live in it. You never know, it could change your life.