I read this article about slow travel and had one of these aha moments. It turns out that’s what our team has focusing on for the last few years at Nature Mystique Retreat. We just weren’t putting a name to it. The concept totally intrigued me and helped me put into words how I want to travel from now on and how at Nature Mystique Retreat we have been implementing this without consciously realizing it.
So slow travel to me is very simple. We work hard, caught up in the daily grind if you will. Why should we travel hard too? Why must we pack everything into a very aggressive itinerary where we need to fill each moment with an activity. When do we realize we need a break from the hard stuff. So let’s focusing on slowing down and being mindful and present as we experience things.
Slowing Down At Nature Mystique Retreat
Although there is lots to do in Hocking Hills Ohio, some of our guests actually never leave our property during their stay. There are activities onsite like our very popular cedar hot tubs and sauna. There’s a firepit, rock garden, meditation space, and we are incredibly excited about the hiking trail we just added onsite. If you want to relax, you can lay out on one of our hammocks (seasonally available), sit by the pond or around the firepit. There’s plenty to do why still being able to focus on slow travel, going at a slightly slower pace with presence of mind.
Nature Travel
Sometimes you just need to immerse yourself in nature and take a moment to take in your surroundings. It’s a very calming experience, some of our guests have called it therapeutic. Immersing oneself in nature has been shown to have tremendous health benefits. I can actually feel my body slowing down, feel calmer, feel my heart rate go down and just this overall sense of tranquility.
Slow Travel, A More Mindful Travel Experience
It is about more mindful and sustainable travel for what you plan to do on your vacation rather than checking off a long to do list. You can simply allow yourself to enjoy the world at a slower pace. Taking your time in exploring a state park is an example of slow travel.
Notice the sounds of the forest, notice the chirping of the birds, the power of the waterfall, the stillness and sense of calm. Notice the scents of the cedar wood while soaking in our hot tub. Did you see the cows grazing next door, I have this absolute fascination with cows. Did you notice how calm and relaxed you feel, how your heartbeat went down and your breathing is more steady?
Mindfulness traveling with intention can make the experience more meaningful. You have a true opportunity to be present and mindful of your experiences. It can be a life altering way to travel. You can still fulfill your list of where you want to go and what you want to experience. It is just a way to slow down and take it all in, noticing things you wouldn’t if you move too fast. At Nature Mystique Retreat we foster those opportunities and experiences. We hope to see you on your future travels while you explore all the beauty that can be found in this wonderful world particularly seen in nature.
