Sometimes for us to see the trees through the forest, we need a little time away … time for our mind to quiet itself long enough to hear the sound of peacefulness … or maybe leaves rustling in the breeze. We moms have lots of things on our minds and since our brains are so active with our many roles and responsibilities, it is probably a very good idea to purposely wind down on a regular basis.
The pictures in this post are of my friend Cindy on a relaxed hike through Sedona’s Oak Creek and the West Fork Trail. This beautiful place is an ideal location for reclaiming a sense of peacefulness. After going over the bridge and past the trail head, you get to meander through the scenic red rock, lush vegetation and gentle creek path. You may find yourself purposely stepping into the creek just to touch the stream or sitting next to it while it lulls you into a sense of calm.
When you have an opportunity to hike this trail, Cindy and I both highly recommend it. If Sedona is not on your map for today, create your own path to solitude wherever you may be.
The pictures in this post are of my friend Cindy on a relaxed hike through Sedona’s Oak Creek and the West Fork Trail. This beautiful place is an ideal location for reclaiming a sense of peacefulness. After going over the bridge and past the trail head, you get to meander through the scenic red rock, lush vegetation and gentle creek path. You may find yourself purposely stepping into the creek just to touch the stream or sitting next to it while it lulls you into a sense of calm.
When you have an opportunity to hike this trail, Cindy and I both highly recommend it. If Sedona is not on your map for today, create your own path to solitude wherever you may be.
A Path to Solitude at Home with any amount of time:
30 seconds:
Close your eyes and take three deep breaths, slowly breath out before inhaling again ... then stretch your arms high above your head ... as far as you can ... then relax ... exhaling again
5 minutes:
Walk 2.5 minutes in any direction outside of your home and then return home ... see how refreshed you feel
15 minutes:
Take a bubble bath or warm shower just for the purpose of relaxing
30 minutes:
Walk 15 minutes in any direction outside of your home and then return home ... see how refreshed you feel (same or different from a 5 minute walk? You decide!)
7 hours:
head north from the Valley of the Sun toward Sedona listening to your favorite music … exit I-17 to 179 ... then take 89a to the West Fork Trail parking area not too far beyond Slide Rock … hike … drink lots of water … relax … have a picnic … relax some more … drive safely home listening to your favorite music … arrive home … relaxed ~
West Fork Trail – Sedona, Arizona
This trail attracts people from all over the world!
There is a fee to park here; you pay at the entrance and you do not need a Red Rock Pass. You may also choose to purchase a mini-trail guide. The parking area includes picnic tables and nice restrooms. This is a great place to go with your friend(s) and can also be a great family destination.
For more information and to see if this trail is right for you, see www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/recreation/red_rock/westfork-tr.shtml
Other Fun Places to Consider Visiting in Sedona:
Tlaquepaque
This is a fun place to hang out & enjoy art, shops & restaurants.
www.tlaq.com
Chapel of the Holy Cross
If you want a moment to experience or express your faith, this place is ideal.
www.chapeloftheholycross.com
La Auberge de Sedona
This resort is just down the hill from most of the shops in the tourist area of Sedona; there is even a tram you can ride up & down the hill for free.
My husband and I got married at La Auberge on the banks of Oak Creek almost 10 years ago. The restaurant is also right on the creek with indoor or outdoor seating that is relaxed and elegant --- yes, you’ll feel comfy and immersed in luxury at the same time!
www.lauberge.com
Wildflower Café or Starbucks
Yes, these are chains but these two chains picked beautiful locations right next to each other for their Sedona sites (101 N Highway 89A). Start here, end your day here or take a break with breathtaking views. There are a few other shops for browsing at this complex, too.
www.wildflowerbread.com
www.starbucks.com
