Find Your Escape

January brings extreme change into our lives.  We tend to become so focused on our new goals, our new attitude, our new “me” that we forget to allow ourselves to just be happy.

Do you have somewhere that you can relax and just be yourself without having to take on the responsibilities of the world?   Or perhaps your escape includes dancing or singing or hiking or something fun.    

We all need a place we can go that melts away the stresses of everyday life.  As many of you know, my happy place is the lake.  This particular lake is in the mountains surrounded by a state forest and has no cell or internet service.  It’s a place where I can unplug and forget the world exists for a few days. 

I am sharing a video about Cowans Gap Lake because just thinking about being there makes me happy and gives me a few stress-free moments.

Today I want you to take a break from all that you are doing and discover your own happy place.  If you can’t be there in person, just imagine you are there.  Hear the sounds, smell the smells, see the sights, feel the breeze (if outdoors) and enjoy a few moments of happiness. 

Remember, practicing something over and over will create a habit.  Each time stress crops up into your life, take a few moments to imagine you are in the place that makes you happy. 

I know, some people feel awkward and uncomfortable when trying new things.  But this practice has been around for a very long time.  We practice it even without knowing that we are.  Some examples include the mom whose kids are screaming and she is so overwhelmed.  She closes her eyes and imagines taking a bubble bath with a glass of wine in her hand.  Or the teenager whose homework is way too boring and they take a break playing video games.  It happens all the time!  And the best news is that we get to choose the activities that make us happy. 

Where is your happy place?