Growing up in Salem Oregon, it seems that I have learned aspects of both a small town and a busy city. Like any other city, downtown is by far the busiest section, and with time and experience you learn to avoid the busiest roads during rush hour traffic. Anyone else from Salem can testify that you do not mess with Commercial Street at 5 o'clock on a Friday. The farther out from the heart of Salem you travel, the traffic seems to dwindle bit by bit, although getting stuck behind a tractor or a piece of machinery will be the death of you if you have somewhere to be. There is nothing more frustrating than feeling stuck with where you are, not only in traffic (which happens more often than not I'm afraid) but with life itself. It's as if the city can begin to slowly choke you and at times it can be overwhelming and exhausting. If frustration has become your best friend and closest companion, why torture yourself by staying where you are?
That being said, the beach seems to carry with it a new perspective that can clear your mind of the city fog. It has always been my favorite place, or at least in my little corner of the world. I saw this quote painted on a piece of driftwood in the window of a little store in Seaside, OR and it has become one of my favorites:
"I come to the sea to breathe."
If there is a truer statement, I have yet to uncover it. From the moment I step out onto the sand, a sense of clarity, peace and renewal washes over me. All the sounds and anxieties of the city ostensibly melt off my skin. This seems to be the case with any coastline, from California to the cliffs of Northern France, no matter where I go I can call the beach home. Looking out on miles of endless blue glass seems to stabilize the senses and calms the mind. Fun fact: standing on the beach at sea level, we can see out to the ocean about 2.7 miles.
No, this article is not to brag about how awe-inspiring the Oregon coast is or due to the fact that I was there last night (ok, maybe a little bit) but simply to tell you to be kind to yourself. Even if one loves the city, feels renewed by the beats the city pulsates with, your body needs time away from it all even if for the day. Take a drive or a bike ride, even a walk into the outskirts of the city and take time for yourself. One can find hidden truths or realizations about themselves if only they step away for a moment or two. Have a bonfire on the sand and roast marshmallows, wade in the surf at sunset, but whatever you do, enjoy yourself and those around you, as there is nothing like a fresh perspective to set your mind at ease.
