My restorative moment with the environment...

Family vacations are a big part of my family's interaction. They are the only time we can come together and enjoy each others' company without the distraction of the outside world. Now, because of my parents' preferences we will always vacation on or at least a near a beach, but never anything less than walking distance to the beach.

I can remember when I was in my early high school years, we took a vacation to Aruba with two families we are very close to. It was one of the more exciting vacations we have taken because we were able to joke and share memories with not only our family but our friends as well. Having just finished up a musical at my theatre school, I was extremely worn down and tired before this vacation. On the second morning of the vacation, I took it upon myself to wake up early (which I do not do for anything) and sit on the beach before everyone else arrived. When I got to the beach, I laid down on a beach chair, listened to the sounds of the water coming in and out, and felt the warm breeze as it moved my hair back and forth. It was the first time in a while I had been at peace, and calm. I felt immediately as if I was gaining my life energy back. This moment was me being restored by the calmness, and beauty of the beach.

On a normal day to relieve stress I listen to music, and sing my heart out. Sometimes this happens outside, but most of the time it happens in my bedroom or car. If I had more time in the day,  I would make it a point to take walks outside and listen to music to relieve my stress, but I do not get a chance to ever do that. I wish I did.