A Hug from Nature
photograph by Joanne Scofield
by Joanne Scofield
Sometimes, mornings can be a rush of activity. Get up, workout, take the dogs for a walk, eat breakfast, check emails, start work. Repeat. A regular routine. But recently, I experienced a morning that was quite different.
I arrive at the lake for a morning walk with my dogs. I am a bit late this morning so when I get out of my car, I notice construction has already started at a building site in the distance. I put my earbuds in, the voices from a favourite podcast drowning out the sound of construction vehicles.
As I start walking, I notice snow starting to fall. I’m not really a winter person so I pick up my pace hoping I won't get caught in a storm. As I walk, the lightly falling snowflakes catch my attention. I feel drawn to stop and watch. Each flake in a dance with another flake, slowly falling, as if moving and being suspended in air at one time.
After a few moments, I take my earbuds out and notice how quiet it is. The snow is creating a light cover, a quiet.
I look around and see low lying clouds in the distance creating a monochromatic palette in shades of white and grey. A palette that can sometimes feel oppressive or sad. In this moment it feels comforting and supportive.
The wind, often moving swiftly across the lake, is at rest today. The lake’s clear surface, perfectly reflecting the houses on shore. A group of ducks gather near the water’s edge, creating a black line extending land to water, water to land.
I stop and take it in, struck by the beauty and solace. An invitation to slow down, to be present. As I breathe in, I notice the crispness in the air, I feel snow on my face, cold and wet, yet refreshing. A light cover of snow on the bushes and trees. A hush in the air. The sound of construction still there, but fading into the background.
As I stand silently watching, I hear the sound of a bird call. Then another and another. Layers of birds, calling into the morning.
The feel of a hug from nature, surrounded by the call and the beauty. I soak it in.
Two people pass by, walking their dog. We share a momentary nod as they go by.
I start walking again, enjoying the moment. As I turn to return, something draws my eye to the top of a tree where I see an eagle sitting, watching. This is a spot where eagles can often be seen, yet I still feel awed by it. I watch as I continue to walk. The call of birds re-enters my awareness. Across the lake, the call of a duck.
As I walk, I see a gentleman and his dog walking towards me. We stop and exchange a few words. “I love it when it’s like this,” he says. “The snow, creates a quiet.” I nod in agreement. I point to the eagle sitting high above us. The man shifts to see it. “Ah yes,” he says, “in its spot.” We both marvel at the beauty of the moment, then carry on our way. The din of the construction carrying on in the background.
As I head home, ready to step into my day, I take the calm with me, a bit changed, a bit different. Grateful for these moments.
Joanne Scofield
is a certified Forest Therapy Guide, through GIFT (Global Institute for Forest Therapy). She grew up in a small town in northern B.C. where a forest of pine trees was an extension of her backyard and where she spent a lot of time playing and exploring. Without being aware at the time, this was the start of her experience of deep nature connection.
Throughout her life, she has found connection and healing in the natural world and enjoys creating space to support others in their journey. She also has an interest in labyrinths, meditation, and exploring creativity to support personal and spiritual growth. Joanne enjoys spending time outside, walking with her dogs, Sadie and Rosie. She lives in Penticton, the traditional and unceded lands of the Syilx / Okanagan peoples.
