SOAKING UP SUNSETS Something surreal occurs at dusk that many unfortunately neglect to take part in--perhaps too engulfed in obligation, or strapped with stress to take notice of these aesthetic symphonies in the evening sky. However, research shows that people who feel connected with nature report being happier and having more positive emotions than those who don’t share this connection. So if you are one who does not readily partake in this experience, we highly recommend you start.
For Brooke and I, this is our absolute favorite time of the day--the setting of the sun. It is a brief miraculous moment to pause in wonderment and awe, witnessing the world transform as the sun casts its gentle glow. The celestial scene allows us to put the troubles of the day behind us-- the turning of an earthly page--a metaphorical portal into tomorrow. Then suddenly as nature's brush paints its kaleidoscope...time stands still. We get a break from fretting over the past or fearing an uncertain future. The sunset we are seeing, we will never see again; now is all that exists.
With every shifting shadow, the sky becomes a canvas of rose swirled with deep plum, a brush of crimson crosses a captivated cloud which melts into a soft golden hue. Each fleeting moment the sky changes, and this change is neither good or bad – it just is. It will happen, and continue to happen, and therein lies the beauty of change.
Whether you savor a cozy cup of coffee while gazing out of your window, or take an evening stroll, be sure to take several slow, deep breaths to relax your body and calm your mind. Intentionally focus on the sunset; be cognizant of the changing colors and light, as the vivid hues crescendo and then fade into a shadowy silhouette...until darkness envelopes the world.
For Brooke and myself, each sunset is just like a vacation, healing our physical, mental and spiritual being. Well done, Universe!
Gift Card Giveaway Contest: Send your most beautiful West Suburban Sunset Photo to our email: pedis.n.passports@gmail.com to win a $100 Meson Sabika Gift Card. 2nd and 3rd Place will receive $25 Meson Sabika Gift Cards. See rules and details on our “Soaking up Sunsets” blog on www.pedisnpassports.com for entry.
ABOUT THE BLOGGERS
Naperville mom and teacher, Kristen Kainrath and her teen daughter, Brooke, are a mother-daughter travel-blogging team who have always shared an incurable case of wanderlust. Their goal is to inspire girls to follow their passions and appreciate the diversity of our global community. Follow them on their journeys at www.pedisnpassports.com and watch for their monthly article inside Glancer Magazine in 2017.
