Hidden Oasis

Hidden Oasis
            When we think of a literal “oasis,” images of a desert watering hole surrounded by palm trees come to mind. The figurative version of an oasis can be anything that gives a sense of refuge and relief. A favorite corner in a quiet coffee shop, the view from a favorite hill, a hidden cove of a beach. An oasis can also be a safe space we create in our own minds.
            We all need an occasional escape to our personal oasis, even during the best of times. If relatively minor stresses deserve brief retreats to our mental refuge spots, what on earth do people do during really challenging times?
            Pummeled by a worldwide pandemic, political and social turmoil, and an ongoing flurry of hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, flooding, and drought, one wonders how any of us survive emotionally.
            Everyone has a little oasis somewhere, perhaps without consciously realizing it. A quiet soak in the tub, a short walk in the neighborhood, time sitting with a favorite pet.
            Why not think about it consciously? If we could all find our own mental safe spot more easily, the world’s cumulative stress level might go down a notch.
            My never-fail oasis since childhood has been time in nature, whether a several mile walk through snowy fields and forests, or three minutes by my back window looking at the sunset. May everyone find their easy-access oasis in these difficult times.
            This week’s Hike Notes introduce readers to Mount Davidson, a forty acre park with trails leading to the highest point in San Francisco, offering broad city views, as well as mysterious stone stairs and misty forested paths.
            The long list of Hikes can be found on the Quick View Hike List and on the main Hikes page. All past Insights posts can also be viewed in the Insights/Hike Update News archives.
            Check the Home page for the broader background story. If you’re not able to take one of these Northern California hikes, hopefully you can enjoy the photo galleries at the bottom of each hike page! Click Insights/Hike Update News for inspiring reflections. Please feel free to share.
New this week:
Hike Notes 114: Mount Davidson