Present and aware

As the days are getting nicer and longer - there seems to be more and more activity out on the trail - walkers and cyclists alike.

I love using my time on the trail to empty my mind, practice breath work, practice presence - notice the sounds, the flowers, the birds, the trees - and just emerge myself in the beauty of Mother nature.

If I wasn't paying attention, I would be an accident waiting to happen.

I'm finding that as it gets busier, I actually have to be even more present - aware of the sounds of branches crackling, bike chains clicking, dogs barking, people talking off in the distance - all to alert me of any "oncoming traffic" either sneaking up behind me or heading in my direction, which can be particularly tricky when entering narrow turns on the trail with little visibility.

I've found it to be a great opportunity to practice having one eye on the inside and one on the outside - and having one ear on the inside and one on the outside.

Paying attention to both what's happening on the inside of my body and the outside simultaneously.

Being the one behind the eyes.

As much as I love when it's just me, the river, the trees and the birds - I really love seeing people out enjoying themselves in nature and getting to engage with them - even for a brief moment.

So for now, I appreciate the opportunity to become more aware and conscious and choose to see it as a blessing and a gift.