I just got back from my cabin camping trip, and I feel refreshed. Don’t get me wrong, it was definitely work, but there is something meditative about going through the basic steps of sustaining life. I spent almost all of my time either finding and chopping wood, carrying water, tending fires, cooking, or cleaning. These activities can become very centering and grounding when done surrounded by so much natural beauty.
Out in the woods, there are few distractions. All you have is your work, your thoughts, and your friends. It is not an option to boot up the computer for some mindless surfing. Sometimes it is good to go to a place that you can leave these distractions behind and truly be present. It’s amazing, but you are never bored.
There is also a sense of peace that comes from knowing nothing in cabin life is perfect. Our modern day sensibilities of cleanliness often get tossed aside when all your water has to be hiked up hill. Try keeping the floors clean when you are trapsing back and forth with armloads of wood for the fire. These struggles added to the camaraderie, and it was fun to tackle these challenges with friends.
Nice read and so very true something about the outdoors is very peaceful and surreal !
Thanks Wilson!
aw, cute pic! sounds like a neat experience…
Glad you had a good time. I love camping myself. You may want to read Eric Brende’s book called BETTER OFF. It is about his year long experiment of living a low-tech lifestyle. It is a fascinating read and he describes much of the sentiment you did in your post.
PeregrinJoe – I’ll have to check that book out, it sounds interesting. Thanks!
Laura – I’m glad that you like the picture! There’s nothing better than a porch swing.
I like the picture too! Glad you had a great time.
Love you!