Wednesday 20 August 2014

Roaming



The past weekend was quite fraught - lots of emotional ups and downs. It's tough on all of us right now, and even though we support one another and just get on with things as best as we can, I suddenly felt as though I'd hit a wall. Tired and drained and in need of a little boost. So on Monday I did something truly extravagant. I dropped Joe at nursery and took three hours for myself to escape into the hills.

I know I talk quite often about the benefits of getting outdoors but it really is something I feel passionately about. It's my prescription for peace of mind. So, armed with the camera, off I went. Up onto the moors where I sat in the sunshine and enjoyed some much-needed solitude. Just the sound of the sheep for company; even the wind which had been howling all weekend had suddenly disappeared overnight.


Being on the moors reminds me of my childhood. I know the paths and hills, streams and even the dry stone walls like the back of my hand. It's a comforting place to be and I love it in all weathers. It's where I've galloped along on my pony; where I've sat and picnicked. We had adventures up there in those precious after-school hours of summers long ago. Lots of memories. And nothing up there ever seems to change.


Walking alone can be a real luxury. You have the freedom to wander off on mini expeditions, peering over walls or examining nature's little details. Of course it can be an occasionally scary experience too. Like when I dropped down through the woods and had one of those horror film moments. The loud snapping of a branch. Your heart's in your mouth as you slowly turn to look behind you into the trees. Nothing. Rising panic, imagining your pursuer hiding and watching. Then the relief as you realise it was just a fat, clumsy woodpigeon sitting on a bough which couldn't take it's weight.

Yes, I swore at the pigeon.


Of course, you can't walk too far around these parts before you're engaged in conversation. This time I was advised on where to find a female pheasant and her five chicks ('I see you've got your camera').

My long walk across the hills took me down into the villages close to our own. Having enjoyed the moors and the wilderness it was good to just notice what people had been up to as I passed by and observed. Like taking a little diversion through some woodland allotments and looking at what was growing. And noticing a sweet little house I've always admired is now up for sale.



Those three hours were incredibly therapeutic. The colours: purples, mossy greens, browns, greys. The sound of water as I walked alongside streams and leaned over waterfalls. The smells of fresh air and damp earth in the depths of the woods. The sense of the seasons shifting. I was momentarily lost in myself, thoughts scudding along and shifting like the clouds.


14 comments:

  1. Over the last couple of months I've taken to walking, alone and in deep thought. I can often be seen standing with my eyes closed, letting the wind whistle by me. It's the very best time to think (often shed a few tears, blame the wind) then return home with a refreshed feeling. Hope you feel refreshed from your time on the moors. Thinking of you. Sarah

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    1. Thank you! Being outdoors is maybe not quite a cure-all but definitely a big help when your mind's troubled. And a lot cheaper than retail therapy or alcohol!

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  2. I am glad that you have taken some time for yourself, it is so important when you have a lot going on. I hope that all is OK or going as well as it can do. xx

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    1. Thanks, Amy. Things are just up and down at the moment but we're coping because we have to. A day at a time... and we have a lot to be grateful for too. I hold on to that thought.
      S x

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  3. Your photographs are stunning Sarah. The colours are beautiful! I'm so glad you took time for yourself! It is so important that you look after yourself too while you cope with the situation you're in. Fresh air and time outdoors is definitely food for the soul. Take care lovely! Bee xx

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    1. Thanks, Bee :) Despite everything I haven't lost my appetite for photography and the outdoors. Or food either - I'm currently trying to lost some weight. Maybe I've been comfort eating. Actually, I'm just greedy. Some things don't change, whatever life throws at me!
      Perhaps more uphill treks will help.
      S x

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  4. I'm so glad you managed to have this little break. I never fail to feel better after a walk in the countryside, it is a tonic like nothing else. Your photos are absolutely lovely, beautiful details and wonderful skies. Take care of yourself Sarah. CJ xx

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    1. Thanks CJ - the skies look impressive because I actually bothered to take my camera bag and gadgets with me so used a lens filter! I'm glad you like the photos.
      S x

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  5. Good to find some time for yourself. A good walk always helps. X

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  6. It sounds like your walk was the perfect tonic. I am sorry to hear things are difficult for you, don't beat yourself up for needing time alone. If you need it to recharge then it makes you the mother you are, one who cares. We need to look after ourselves in order to care an look after others :)

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    1. I once read somewhere that time out isn't selfish, it's self-care. Doesn't stop me feeling like it's a bit self-indulgent but it's the right thing to do sometimes...
      S x

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  7. It's good to get out and have a nice, long walk. Some time to yourself always help.

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  8. Yes, some alone time in the fresh air can work wonders when life is tough, when you're focused on someone else and their needs. Take care.

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  9. Your photography is stunning Sarah. I wish my photographs were half as good :-) I hope the walk was just what you needed. Sending lots of hugs x

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