Ever notice when you are sitting at the beach, or walking through a forest you feel more relaxed, more connected, more observant? Even simply gazing out a window onto a garden or nature setting is calming and soothing. Nature’s healing power is undeniable.

I am blessed to live in North San Diego County. There is a great energy and spirit here – magical really. It is hard to explain, but the land and the community seem to promote health and wellness. Just two miles from my front door is a beautiful lagoon and nature preserve Batiquitos Lagoon. I have lived in this neighborhood for over a year, but just recently began walking the serene nature path along the lagoon’s edge. What took me so long?

Walking is good for me. Right?

As we all know, walking, while it is touted as something we should all be doing, can often cause as severe a flare as high-impact activity. While yoga has become my new go-to exercise, I have shied away from walking very much because it is more problematic for me. But there are so many things about the lagoon trail that make it perfect for me, and now I look forward to walking it as frequently as possible.

The trail itself is a flat, easy, two mile walk one way. The lagoon is just off the ocean so even in the hottest time of the day there is a cooling breeze, and much of the trail is shaded by giant Eucalyptus trees. And if that were not comfortable and inviting enough, every tenth of a mile or so, there is a strategically placed bench welcoming trail enthusiasts to have a seat and take in the serene surroundings.

From Great Blue Heron, to the endangered Least Turns, there are birds a plenty to watch flying overhead or feeding along the shoreline. I have no idea what crazy kind of fish are in the lagoon, but it is impossible not to see them leaping up out of the water, taunting pelicans with their acrobatics. The habitat is beautiful and diverse. My favorite is the gigantic, pre-historic looking sago palms – 30-40 feet in height, I can just imagine what lives amid their great fronds.

I love the the Batiquitos Lagoon!

It is my new meditation spot and happy place. Serenity finds me each time I am there. I have walked more in the past month then I did all year, and for the most part, flare-free. What more could I ask for?

Plus, did I mention? Finley loves it too.