Take a breath and moment for yourself

Take a breath. In. Out.

Take another breath.

In. Out. Good.

There is a lot happening in the world right now, and it can be overwhelming. We’re not tuning out the news completely; we’re not going to stop being vigilant for COVID-19 spread; we’re not turning a blind eye to protests and racial injustice.

But we are going to set aside the heavy stuff, just for a few minutes. All the stress and anxiety in us and around us is nearly enough to make us catatonic. Remember in the pre-flight orientation when you’re told to secure your own oxygen mask before assisting anyone else? You know, because you can’t help anyone if you’re passed out or dead? This is a little bit like that. We’re securing our metaphorical masks and breathing in some joy and fresh air. Then, after we’ve taken care of ourselves for a little while, we’ll go back to helping others.

So take a deep breath, and enjoy the first signs of summer.

Spring blossoms have given away to lush green foliage. It’s always a relief to see the hills cloaked in emerald again after months of bleak, barren branches.

While we could definitely do without the resurgence of bugs, we’re grateful for the longer days. We’ll happily trade out the furnace for the AC, then throw open the windows when the sun sets, bringing cool evening air to replace the sweltering day.

Parks are opening and, slowly, so are pools.

Marilla pool opened last week, according to BOPARC, and Krepps opened on Saturday. The pools will be open noon-6 p.m. daily. Concessions won’t be sold this season, but families will be able to bring small coolers with drinks and snacks. Families can also bring lawn chairs and beach umbrellas. For specifics, go visit boparc.org.

The Aquatic Center at Mylan Park also opened last Monday. They have a rotating daily schedule, with open swim for the community from 3-9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 1-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Last weekend, Twin Spruce Marina — a small, private marina on the Mon River — offered free kayak and canoe rentals. Patrons were merely asked to donate what they could. Gov. Justice gave other outdoor recreation the go-ahead as of May 21. So please — boat, kayak, bicycle and ride ATVs responsibly.

Then there are summer activities that are free, private and not COVID-restricted. Lounging around or playing in yards. Stargazing on clear nights. Listening to the rain and splashing through mud puddles. Planting flowers and vegetable gardens. (The plants and dirt aren’t exactly “free,” but the relaxation that comes with being wrist-deep in rich soil, the fragrance of blooms perfuming the air, is priceless.)

Take a breath. In. Out.

Take the weight of the world off your shoulders, just for a moment. Embrace the beauty and bounty of nature as spring sprints toward summer.

Fill yourself with peace, with strength. Take some time for you. Take one last deep breath.

The world still needs you, but it needs the best you. Come back as soon as you’re ready.