Some years ago, Oprah used to include in her magazines a double page spread which she called Breathing Spaces (if I recall correctly) and which showed beautiful outdoor shots. I loved the term Breathing Spaces. When you looked at the photos you felt instantly rejuvenated, replenished, and refreshed.
Whether you live in a rural, suburban or urban setting, it is important that we all have our own breathing spaces. They nourish our souls, fill up our hearts, and make us feel whole again. It is vital to take time to enjoy them regularly and make them part of our routine.
Find something that can be your own breathing space. If you live in an apartment, you can make use of your local parks, or perhaps you have created an oasis of plants in your apartment. If you live somewhere rural perhaps you have a favourite tree that you enjoy sitting under. For the suburban dweller, there are also local parks you can make use of, and find a special spot there. Or if you are lucky enough to have a bit of yard space, you can sit in it and enjoy the bliss of your garden or little bit of paradise. You don’t need an extensive garden, even just a few plants will help. Do whatever evokes that feeling in you of calm, peacefulness, grounding, and inner bliss. And at work, you can post up a picture of the breathing space or a calendar of these kind of photos, putting it where you will be able to see it while you are working. Even something as simple as flipping through a cottage garden magazine and looking at the beautiful gardens, can help while you are traveling on a crowded commuter train.
While we all know that getting outside helps us and is good for our health, the notion of breathing spaces, helps us to add it into our routines, and make sure we prioritize it. Consciously be aware of where and what your own breathing spaces are. Make it a good habit and ensure that you are able to incorporate it into your schedule. These moments of relaxation will help recharge your batteries and replenish your well.