nature.

A zen moment I had with nature occurred recently this summer when I took a trip to China in July. During the second week I was there, my family and I went mountain hiking. It was literally walking uphill for about 3 miles. At first, I complained about being forced to take this treacherous hike in 95º weather - but I found out it was worth it when I reached the top. After taking what felt about a million steps upward on a small path, we reached the top. There was a viewing platform and once I stepped onto it and looked out, I immediately felt at peace. All I saw for miles to come was the tops of other mountains and green lush trees all around me. The only sound I could hear was birds chirping and I could actually smell the fresh air with no hint of pollution whatsoever. I felt so at ease and all the stress including my tired muscles felt refreshed. I would definitely do the entire 3 mile course all over again to feel that sense of peace that can't be felt anywhere but surrounded by nature.