Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Earlier this summer, we had the privilege of joining a group and go to a ranch in Wyoming. Since this was the second year, we knew what to expect and was able to settle into the environment shortly after arriving. In our hope to help others, here are a few things we learned about ourselves and our ability to find true rest and recharge:

If we can be truly present in the moment, we can slow down our thinking and then truly relax. How did we become truly present?

Be in nature – We were in a stunning place. The peace of nature helped us focus on and be present in surroundings rather than the thoughts in the head.

2) Cell phones are bad - The location was remote there with no cell service and thus the cell phone is good for pictures and listening to downloaded entertainment. we were able to be present because were not constantly checking that thing, so much so that when we decided to stay a few extra days. we needed to log on to the staff Wi-Fi (not for guests other than emergencies) to change my flight. As soon as I logged on and my phone started to update, I could feel my anxiety increase and my gut tighten.

 If we can be truly present in the moment, we can slow down my our thinking and then truly relax 

3) Connect with others without the cell phone – We should have conversations and create relationships with others by listening and sharing with them. Taking time to be curious with no interruptions allowed us to both be in the moment and create some meaningful relationships.

4) It is ok for me to be me – Historically in group settings,we have felt like we must follow the group lead and be part of all activities. This can be exhausting. In this case, we can grow confident that we could do what we wanted to do when we wanted to do it, including sitting by the river alone or fishing alone.

5) Sharing is important – In the past we have had a hard time sharing my feelings and bottling them up did not serve me well. Sharing with others allows space to process our feelings. In the past, we may have been too reactionary to our feelings and now we have learned to identify the feeling and decide if we want to do something with them. This practice allowed us to not be consumed by feelings and relax.

By being truly presentwe wereable to relax, which could result in a slower heart rate, a bigger smile, more energy, thinking less, and achieve an overall sense of calm. we have been able to retain some of what we have shared, but the reality is life goes on and the cell phone is back in hand and we just need to remember to be present.