I head out with the intention of gathering up all of the little pieces of myself that get scattered by the comforting winds of my routine. Stability has a mild numbing effect, and like being under the influence of an anesthetic, and I don't always notice when those small pieces begin to drift. The mindful elements of myself aren't gone, but they often feel out of reach. Stepping off the daily trail is hard to do, but it's worth blazing new ground.

This is why I love finding a new trail-head and letting my feet carry me where my car cannot. I love getting away from the screens that define my daily routine, and communing with nature. I love the sound of rushing water and the way it clears my mind by filling my ears. I love replacing looming skyscrapers with towering trees.