The Bible tells us that God rested on the seventh day. How do you spend your Sunday?
Sunday is my favorite day of the week. It’s a day of rest, usually some cooking, and often an afternoon walk in a local park. I love exploring the parks near my house and they are not very busy on fall afternoons. Many people find themselves busy and I find myself contemplating life or simply enjoying the sound of leaves falling by a river.
The Japanese have a word for this wonderous activity, shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing”. I call it “admiring God’s creation”. I do take walks for all the health benefits, but the change of scenery from the trees I see in my neighborhood is welcome indeed. This time of year, there are leaves and acorns everywhere with busy squirrels trying to put them away.
Today while sitting by the stream, I was thinking about the water and how the flow changes this time of year. The water has to find a alterative path when there are leaves or fallen branches blocking the way. The obstacle doesn’t stop the stream, the water finds a way going, over, around, or under the obstacle, making a new path.
Sitting under the tall trees, I realized that I am becoming more like the water, looking for a new way through when things are not going as I wish. The intentional walking in nature and stopping to listen to the water and leaves falling is the reset I need for my week. In addition to the beautiful array of fall colors, the bonus of the day is seeing a blue beetle.
What does your day of rest look like? Are you filling it with chores and errands or do you create space for quiet moments that nurture your soul? If you find yourself busy in the next week, I invite you to try a little forest bathing next Sunday. If nature is not your thing, take some time and do something you love for a little while. You will be amazed at how your week will go if you step out of the “busy” for a little bit. Oh and if you happen to see me in the park, make sure to say hi.
