Find Serenity in Wildflowers

In this crazy world, stress abounds—deadlines, controversy, politics, commitments—all seem never ending. I’m fortunate to live in a wooded area of Colorado, and to find serenity in wildflowers. Winter is long for those of us who live in the higher elevations of Colorado. It’s not unusual to have several snowstorms in May, and perhaps even one in June. But those May snows bring June wildflowers, and this year they are glorious.

I found this definition of serenity online… “the state of being calm, peaceful, and untroubled.” Serenity is not easy to achieve, but spending time in the forest certainly helps. Many people have to drive miles and hours to get out to nature. I’m lucky enough to have it in my backyard.

Here’s another advantage of living in Colorado at 7,500 feet elevation–free forest bathing. Forest bathing or forest therapy means taking in with all of one’s senses the forest atmosphere. It is the conscious and contemplative practice of being immersed in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest. Sometimes when I’m feeling stressed I walk around my property, enjoying the pine trees, wildflowers, birds, and other wildlife that wander onto my little piece of paradise.

A few of my neighbors mow their entire lot, thus killing most of their wildflowers. Personally, I swerve for wildflowers, and try to mow only a small portion of my lot along the road, leaving the majority natural and welcoming to wildlife.

This morning I took this photo of Rocky Mountain penstemon in my neighborhood. According to High Country Gardens Rocky Mountain penstemon is

-Easy To Grow                    -Native
-Attract Hummingbirds.       -Low Maintenance
-Attract Birds                      -Evergreen
-Bee Friendly                     -Multiplies / Naturalizes
-Rabbit Resistant              -Good for Erosion Control

Not everyone is lucky enough to live in a mountainous wooded area. But perhaps you have a favorite native wildflower where you live. Or perhaps you have planted a small flower or vegetable garden on your property. Even apartment dwellers can create a small oasis with indoor plants.

Next time you are stressed, take a few minutes to smell the wildflowers, and try to totally immerse yourself in the beauty of nature around you. Seek serenity, and you will find it.