Embracing the seasons: walking and hiking in Japan and California
In Japan the changing seasons are a big deal, and I really appreciate how I felt encouraged to slow down and enjoy nature while I lived there. I got into the habit of appreciating nature and whatever what was in bloom during my daily walks to and from the station. Especially in June, the hydrangea (Ajisai) flanking the steep hill to my MIL's house in Kamakura were stunning. Although my husband would grumble about having to cut it back so often in the yard because of its vigorous growth in rainy season - lots depends on your point of view!
As you can imagine, living with your MIL is not always easy, so I really learned to appreciate hiking or walking as one of the best ways to let go of the daily stress while soaking up the changes in the seasons.
While walking in suburban Japan I admired how nature finds its way even in built up environments. It brings such a relief from drab gray buildings and roads, with stunning pinks and whites in spring and more vibrant colors later on. Here in California it's the poppies that catch my eye right now, those bright orange flowers are absolutely stunning! They cover the green hillsides and remind me of hope and new beginnings, a welcome relief of the uncertainty we're all facing in some way or another.
So, go out there, walk through your neighborhood, try to take a moment to really feel the sun on your skin, take out your ear pods and listen to the leaves rustling, and breathe in the fresh air.
What do you like about this season?