A few nights ago, we collected a campervan from Las Vegas and for the next few weeks we’ll be roadtrippin’ around the Southwest. And so far, we’ve made it through Zion National Park, and our journey has been utterly and totally blissful.
And one word sums it up: Silence.
More specifically, the silence in my head. Our first night camping was the first time in ‘I can’t remember when’ that I’ve felt completely and utterly at peace; my brain stopped talking and making lists and reminding me of everything I should be doing. And instead? Nothing but quiet mixed with gratitude.
I don’t know about you, but I find these moments harder and harder to come by (yet at the same time they are more and more important!) If you’ve read my last two posts, you’ll know self care is weighing heavy on my mind lately. I don’t know if I’m becoming needier with age or simply more aware, but I’m craving stillness and calm.
I’ve written before about being present, but I won’t lie – it’s not always easy to achieve. We are so programmed to be focused on productivity that quiet moments sometimes feel like wasted moments (even though we definitely know better!!) And couple this internal pressure with modern technology and being always ‘connected’ … and it can be tough.
So what I’ve learned in these past few days is that instead of fighting our modern environment, sometimes you just have to remove yourself. Leave everything behind and go to the mountains, breathe cold fresh air, sleep under the stars, and indulge in the utter joy of a quiet mind.
So on that note, I thought I’d try something different and keep this post short. I’ll leave you with a few happy snaps of our journey so far and some wise words.??
Silence is the sleep that nourishes wisdom. Francis Bacon
Hello there! I’m Jennifer, the voice behind Simply + Fiercely, a community of women striving to live simpler, more intentional lives. As a former shopaholic and workaholic, I know how it feels to live a life that doesn’t feel true to what’s in your heart. Fortunately, I’ve transformed my life and gone from feeling cluttered and confused to living a curated life filled with purpose and joy. Now I’m here to help do the same – are you ready to get started?
Zion has an extremely special place in my heart for a similar reason. I went through some devastating and life-altering difficulties at 19 years old. I was having a hard time coping with them at home – so I took a job in Southern Utah and escaped. Left behind everyone and everything I knew and just went. I spent a fantastic 6 months sitting still in the middle of all this glorious red rock (which I hated before moving there) and just took in the majesty of the world around me – discovering how very small my difficulties really were and how grateful I am for what I have and who it has made me. it had one of the biggest impacts on my life of anything I’ve ever done. I’m sure I would be a very different person had it not been for the sweet relief of that very special time.
Seeing your beautiful pictures is taking me back…:)
Aww Mackenzie, that is such a beautiful story – thank you so much for sharing! I can completely imagine how Zion would have such a power effect on you; even thought we travelled (and loved) thought a ton of other National Parks in Utah, I never felt the same level of tranquility and calm as I did there. It’s certainly has restorative powers … almost a bit magical.
This is so timely. I’ve been feeling overwhelmed lately – too much going on, too much to do, which makes me feel more frazzled than I’d like. Working on doing one thing at a time, spending less time on the computer, making time to look up and notice things. Trying to quiet that dang mind 🙂
Haha, it is SO HARD sometimes, isn’t it! Our brains just don’t listen to us like they should ? Good luck lovely – hope you get some quiet time soon xx
Stillness and silence are things I wish our culture promotes and values more often. It is so important to remove ourselves from modern ways of busyness and to-do lists. I love these thoughts of having a quiet mind. It really can refocus our energy and ourselves. Silence is an art, a nourishing one too! Thanks so much for sharing these photos and thoughts–I wish you all the best on your journey!
That’s so true Gina! I think most people crave stillness and silence (but don’t even realise it until they find it.) That was the case for me! And it definitely helped me refocus my energy – I feel more productive than I have in ages!! Thanks for your kind words and for stopping by. xx
Yes yes yes, that’s exactly the thing that I’ve decided last night. To leave everthing behind, all of the distractions at home and go into the forest for a few days to clear my head!
Best thing ever! Have fun and thanks for commenting 🙂
I think this is the right number of words, actually & you wrote this well. I can imagine you sitting under the stars at peace. And the photos are beautiful! Good to hear you’re taking this time for yourself!
haha, I usually write really long posts (I can’t help it) so this is super short for me! Thanks for your sweet words about my writing and photos. I’m definitely feeling peaceful … I’ve been having crazy thoughts about running away to a cabin in the middle of nowhere!! We’ll see … ?
Just beautiful! I love these moments of quiet reflection… they seem so rare in seasons of busy-ness, which is when I need it most. I’m making it a goal to get up early and just sit and be present with a cup of tea. It’s totally doable. By the way I am LOVING your Utah photos!
Hi Daisy, I love your idea of getting up early and really being mindful about your tea – you’re right, it really is so doable! (And worth it!) Thanks for your kind comment about my photos, it’s so easy here! x
Beautiful images! And so true. I’m planning a retreat for April and don’t want to take my laptop or tablet but the idea of being away from everything, even for two days, is a little terrifying.
Kirsty, I know exactly what you mean! I love being away from everything … but I also panic a bit being disconnected. I guess it says something about how much we need it!! Where are you going on your retreat? x
I’m not sure yet – it’s still in the planning stages. But I’m thinking maybe the Flinders Ranges, which is Australian Outback and definitely isolated, and also somewhere I’ve never been before.
I spent a night in the Flinders Ranges (years ago) – it’s isolated, but beautiful! Be sure to post pics if you go 🙂
Gorgeous photos! I’m so glad you’re having a great time with the van. I haven’t been to Zion yet but I hope to eventually. And I know exactly what you mean. I love it when I am hiking and I just pause for a moment and listen to all the silence!!
Hi Joella! I can’t take credit for the photos, it’s so easy to take beautiful shots when you have a backdrop like this! Yes, you definitely need to make it to Zion – there are a lot of other gorgeous parks in Utah as well!! And silence is certainly rare these days. Thanks for commenting xx