A Happy Place to Restore Your Soul
"River, river, take me away
Wash me clean, keep my sins at bay"
Mountain Song
by Flatland Cavalry
If you find yourself in a season of healing, growth, or transformation, you might feel worn out. It's hard work. Finding a place to retreat, refresh, and restore your soul is essential. A happy place.
We hear the phrase constantly, "Oh, that's my happy place." The term can feel overused. I am guilty of saying it, too. It often refers to somewhere we travel. However, your happy place doesn't need to be a faraway destination. It can be a favorite chair or quiet space in your home, a sunset spot, a place of worship, a walking route, or an imaginary scene. The point is to find a location that brings peace and calm.
In therapy, meditation, or guided imagery, I am often invited to visualize a safe space where I feel at ease. My place has changed over time, but most recently, it has been by the San Miguel River in Telluride, CO (pictured above). A shady spot along the river bank with three large rocks, perfect for sitting. Off in the distance are the jagged peaks of the San Juan mountains. The river rushes, birds sing, and I breathe in the fresh air. I could sit here all day. Every part of my being relaxes.
On our trip to Telluride in July, as I sat by the river, I found myself reciting these lines from The Mountain Song by Flatland Cavalry.
River, river, take me away
Wash me clean, keep my sins (fear, pain, memories) at bay*
I imagined all the fear, pain, and memories from my past floating away down the river. The water was clear and invigorating. It felt alive, rippling over and over again. It gave me a sense of peace and hope.
*As I often do, I changed the lyrics. They reflect my struggles instead of the traditional connotation of sin.
I am grateful I had the opportunity to visit the river in person. I took a one-minute video to return to the river whenever I need rest for my soul (see below).
I invite you to think about your happy place. Is it easy to get to physically or in your mind? If you need help finding a spot, join me at the river. Either way, take a moment to go to a calm space today.
Breathe Deeply. Rest. Nourish Your Soul.
Walking the Journey with You,
MeganPrayer for August:
Dear God,
I have been working hard on healing, growth, and transformation, but I am worn out and need rest. My soul longs to be nourished and restored. However, it's difficult to relax. Today, for a few minutes, help me retreat to my happy place, either in person or through imagery. Allow me to let go, breathe deeply, and trust in your divine presence. Amen.
Mountain Song
Song by Flatland Cavalry
One, two, three
Mountain, mountain, it's good to see your face
Mighty wonder, high above the plain
Mountain, mountain, could I take your place?
River, river, take me away
Wash me clean, keep my sins at bay
River, river, take me away
Piñon perfume blowin' in the wind
Time ain't a thing here, luck is my best friend
Carryin' with me everythin' I own and who I am
Pray to God, I see your face again
Pray to God, I see your face again
Stars are burnin' up in the sky
Celestial angels teach me how to fly
Stars are burnin', won't you take me on high?
Take me on high
Pine tree campfire, end of the night
Embers burnin', sheddin' you light
Bottle of Blanton's got me feelin' right
Mountain, mountain, keep me company tonight
Piñon perfume blowin' in the wind
Time ain't a thing here, luck is my best friend
Carryin' with me everythin' I own and who I am
Pray to God, I see your face again
Pray to God, I see your face again
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