MelsJustPeachy

Hiking is a great way to clear the mind and renew the soul. There are a couple different ways to classify a pacific northwest (PNW) hiking experience. First, we have our “adventures hikes” (these are the ones we haven’t been to before, therefore adventurously exploring the magic of the unknown) and then we have our “rewind spots” these are places we tend to revisit repeatedly. This can be since they elicit a special feeling or have strong memories associated with them. For myself, Wallace falls was an adventurous hike that turned into a “Rewind spot”. It’s a spot where my husband and I would often break away, allowing ourselves to truly get away from it all. An adventurous, yet safe place where we could get lost in the deep hues of forest green while breathing deep in the clean and crisp forest air. As you hike up to the waterfall the sounds of the adjacent rushing waters take you over in a spellbinding tune. The trees tall and grandiose, yet humbling and gentle all at the same time. The spirit of the forest, if you allow it, will easily become part of you. 

Our most recent visit to Wallace Falls, was quite special. It started off as a typical day in the PNW, rainy and cool. Embracing the potential of inclement weather, we braved the mountain passes as true lifelong residents do. If you have a quality raincoat, hiking boots and a beanie, you’ll be just fine no matter what Washington weather will throw at you, but I digress. The hike started off without any rain at all, and my hiking party that consisted of myself, spouse, dog, and father found ourselves getting enveloped by the forest’s intoxicating scenery. Fall had finally arrived, and the leaves so rich in reds, yellows, oranges, and browns.

I had been carrying a lot on this hike, not physically but metaphorically. I had gone through so much over the summer until now, forging new beginnings that I hadn’t stopped to embrace fall. Realizing in this moment, I hadn’t checked in on myself for quite some time either.  I stared at the magnificent trees; the tops lightly covered in fog as it began to downpour. Each step in continuation meant another drop of water on my face, some mine, some a gift from nature. I was letting go of what was. A powerful assistance provided by the forest, again, should you be open to receiving it.

We reached an impasse just before the first viewpoint of the falls, when the weather got to be too much for the 9 lbs. member of the hiking party. We would have to turn around before reaching our intended destination. Isn’t that so? Sometimes we put in all this effort just to have to turn around and go back. There such beauty in being able to accept what may not be ours at the time. It doesn’t mean you can’t have it at some point it just simply means not today. More rain ensued and I was getting chilled the bone. It felt good but we needed to head back. As we headed back, the rain let up and the sun began to peak from the dark grey clouds. As we exited the trailhead, the warm sun began attempting to dry up the water on my face. I felt lighter, despite my waterlogged attire. An overwhelming sense of gratitude and peace came over me as I finished my journey through the forest. The forest aided in washing away all the excess energy, frustrations, and fear I had been holding onto. I emerged feeling renewed, with a reawakened sense of acceptance and appreciation.

So, whether your experience is to hike somewhere new or somewhere familiar, know it can be healing and each experience unique. On your next hike, take a moment to listen to what nature is telling you, stop to breathe in the good and let go of what isn’t needed anymore. And, if you listen very carefully, the forest may even have a message unique to you. Today’s message was of acceptance and appreciation.

For my loyal readers, and newbies, feel free to share your experiences in the comments. I would love to know how your hikes have inspired the mind, body, and soul.

Lots of love,

Mel

“A rainy day is the perfect time for a walk in the woods”

– Rachel Carson