While going to the mountains or camping trips are a great way to reconnect with nature and re-focus my thoughts, I don’t need to leave the city to experience nature and to get all of the benefits it provides.
Recently I transitioned from a position where I learned a great deal about the built environment – all of the human-made features of where we live, work and play. One feature of the built environment that I absolutely love are greenways. Greenways are protected open space for conservation or recreational purposes more commonly found in urban areas.
Living in the city can leave you feeling disconnected from nature. I have to be intentional to focus my energies on all of the natural elements around me. When I’m in a greenway, my serenity is elevated. Even if there are many people around me, there is an undeniable sense of calm.
Being able to experience the benefits of nature in the city brings me peace, and its nice that I don’t have to go out of my way to do so.
Not only are greenways beautiful but they have many other benefits. They,
1. Protect animals and natural wildlife
2. Encourage physical exercise
3. Improve air quality
4. Strengthen local economies
5. Serve as a transportation vessel for non-motorist
6. Increase property value for homeowners that live in close proximity &
7. Provide open space for families and friends to enjoy each others’ company.
Being surrounded by and connecting with nature brings a stillness to life that I yearn.
I can forget about life’s struggles for that moment and find peace and tranquility. The beautiful foliage draws me in and I say to myself, “This is how life should be. Not a care in the world — just me (or me and my family) surrounded by nature.”
We live about 2 miles away from my favorite greenway and I am there most evenings with the kids. Baby girl rides her scooter and baby boy hangs out in the stroller. Other days it’s a solo adventure. I love jogging greenway trails and become increasingly more motivated when I see other people exercising as well.
Of all the benefits, most importantly greenways allow me to intentionally reconnect with myself. They are my serenity.
Find a greenway near you and enjoy all of the physical, emotional and spiritual benefits it can provide.
Do you use greenways? Where do you find serenity?
With Intention
Sean & Simone
Good article, I love getting out into nature. Around our neighborhood, we have two valleys and they both have creeks at the bottom. They are amazing to go for walks around and they invite all kinds of animals. We are lucky that in the city we have this but it was an intentional decision to pick a neighborhood with nature so close. Keep enjoying the greenways!
Financial Fred, aren’t creeks the best?! All the water and animal sounds really bring a sense of peace. So glad you have that option in your ‘back yard’. Intentional decisions when choosing a home are necessary to ensure you get the most out of your purchase. Location, location, location! Thanks for reading and commenting. We appreciate you!
Today’s early voting poll center was chosen because it’s a beautiful park with waterfalls, creeks, ponds, trails into pure peace, sport fields, play/fitness area and also within 12 minutes from home.
After voting, I enjoyed just over two miles in the most perfect autumn weather. Additionally, a Golfdisc Pro Tour was happening at 8a too; it felt like I was back at a road race with all the beautiful signage around.
Greenways are indeed one of my favorite places after nature filled parks.
Thanks for sharing. I plan to get out more often before it gets too cool.
Shonda, now that’s intentional living! To pick your poll center for those reasons is awesome. Glad that you not only got your voting done early, but that you got to enjoy some outdoor time after voting. Great job! Thank you for reading and commenting. We appreciate you.