I think my safe place is in the woods surrounded by trees and maybe a brook running through. I sit by the brook and just listen. The psychologist I see said that running water and rhythmic sounds are associated with inner healing. I think it's true. I can spend a lot of time out there just listening. I also take photos and load them on Facebook. So people get to see which parks I'm visiting. I'm actually becoming somewhat an authority on local hiking. I think it's also a hobby and exercise. There are many studies on the mental health benefits of hiking. Humans do tend to relax when in nature. The endocrinologist said in my notes that I should continue with exercise program in form of hiking for diabetes and mental stability. So I'm doctor approved.

@ihatediabetes Great ideas that combine inner calm and exercise, which is always helpful in maintaining good mental health. Teresa

I really love your reply. My most grounding and calming experiences are when I connect with nature. My husband and I take our 5th wheel and go camping as often as we can. I always coback refreshed, grounded, and knowing what my real priorities are.

Yes it's wonderful. I got some snowshoes and poles so I could keep going out in the snow. Now I get on snowshoes trails and they cut right through the trees. The leaves have dropped so you can see really well. There are deer tracks out there. I have learned to layer my clothes and I carry a light backpack. Maybe since you have 5th wheel you can volunteer as a camp host during spring through fall. They are recruiting camp hosts for Minnesota state parks. It's free camping but you have to help out and keep watch on things. It seems like nice way to camp for free and help people.

Hi All, in response to John James's post, my safe place has to be believing that there is something bigger than this world that loves me! ME. When I had triple by pass surgery, I had an experience, and it left me with KNOWING that love is the most important thing in this life, and that I am LOVED!..truly, without exception, pure unconditional love....it has been the most freeing thing in my life. When the pain....physical or mental come on, I remind myself of how LOVED I am and it brings me peace. Tell someone you love them today and mean it.!!!! So to all here
I wish you PEACE & LOVE.....jj

To me, that sounds like the Holy Spirit. That's how I feel when I'm hiking. I feel love and I believe it's the Holy Spirit.

I have always wanted to feel the "knowing" that you express. I feel that might give me some peace. I know people have experiences while under anethesia and also at other times. If you feel comfortable sharing your experience, that would be nice. But, that is an awfully personal thing, i know. I am so glad that you can feel peace.....cherish it. Hugs

Boy- that sounds right on- couldn't agree more. Thanks for sharing. JJAMES

I am not religious, but I agree with you that the immence peace and love I fand awe I experience while out in nature feel like what has been called the holy spirit. This truly lifts me up in ways nothing else can. Thanks for your posts and expression about nature as a healing force.

Jjwest, i had a similar experience in a car accident. I was out of consciousness and i had a near death experience that left me a changed person. I have no fear of death now and I experienced that total love and acceptance. .