We live in a world that is constantly on the go. We tend to place a high demand on others, from our Starbucks barista to the elderly driver who isn't driving fifteen miles over the speed limit like we were doing until we got stuck behind him or her.

We have so much at our fingertips, yet we are constantly seeking what is out of our reach.

I struggle to feel true contentment in my own life. Instead of opening my eyes to the innumerable blessings God has filled my life with, I let the classes, and meetings, and my job, and projects, and Facebook consume my mind. These things may have their purpose and place; however, they should not become the root of anxiety and discontentment in our lives.

Sometimes I just need to stop where I am, take a deep breath, and SLOW DOWN.

For me, this means getting away from the "real world" for awhile. I realize there can be many different ways in which a person can de-stress, but I have a recommendation that I believe anyone can benefit from.

GO OUTSIDE. There are endless displays of God's awesome power everywhere around you. But whenever we get stuck in the endless routine and rituals of our day, we neglect to admire and appreciate the wonders that surround us.

Take a walk in the woods. Ride your bike down a country road. Watch the sun sink low and cast a pinkish orangish hue across the sky. Lay in a field at night and count the stars.

SOAK IT ALL IN. Don't underestimate the beauty of nature. God created a masterpiece that can restore a worn heart, mend a broken soul, and inspire a dejected spirit.

So get out of your head and get into your surroundings.