Stress Relief

When my crazy family, ridiculous job, or demanding classes become just too much to handle, I need to relax. I mostly just want to get away. Remove myself from whatever is driving me up a wall and not think about it. Driving while angry isn't the best plan for retreat. Increased road rage and a decreased gas tank? No thanks. So, I grab my camera and take off on foot.

Living out in the country has it's benefits, I can walk out my door and be completely alone. No need to worry about traffic flying by or strangers watching me. Out in the middle of no where is where is feel at home.

I usually take to the woods. I love nature and would probably shrivel up and die living in a city. I need life and fresh air. I need rustling leaves and crunching sticks under my feet. I love running through the trails on our property and taking in how beautiful the sights are even though I've seen them a million times. It is the most relaxing feeling being alone in the woods with just me and my camera.

Sometimes I head down the road, instead of the woods. Living down a dirt dead end road in the boondocks may not sound ideal to some, but it's my serenity. I like to stay out taking pictures until sunset. When everything has long beautiful shadows and a golden glow.

When I'm taking pictures, I am completely at ease. I don't have anyone bothering me, no deadlines, no work. Just me doing what I love purely because I want to. And that makes me one of  the happiest people in that moment.

I believe the best way to relieve stress is to do what you love. And in turn, that will make you happy.

“It is through living that we discover ourselves, at the same time as we discover the world around us.”
― Henri Cartier-Bresson