Morning in Central Park

Pippen (my French Bulldog) and I went for a jog in Central Park this morning, or rather we jogged to the park, then as soon as I let her off the leash I chased after her for the the next hour, with intermittent breaks for her to chase the big dogs and taunt the little ones.

I love Central Park, especially right now when the air is crisp and the leaves are changing, but the grass is still green.  I love that in certain parts of the park you feel like you are out in the country, with no signs of city living in sight, except for the occasional film crew or commuters in their business suits.  Even more, I love the parts of the park where just beyond the trees you can see the tall buildings of Park Avenue.  The juxtapostion of the trees, ponds, and grass to the distant skyscrapers illuminates the sanctity of nature and makes me appreciate just how vital the natural landscape is to our wellbeing.  Best of all, I get to share it with my best (canine) friend, who revels in the fallen leaves, the scents, the sensation of cold wet grass on her paws, and brisk wind through her hair.  During this time she acts as my constant reminder to slow down! relax! and enjoy the present!  

 

In the morning, Central Park is full of inspiration- dogs jovially romping, owners delighting in their joy, people practicing Qi Gong and Tai Ji, joggers training for their next race or simply getting their morning run in before work, amateur photographers capturing timeless moments.  The park is full of people enjoying themselves- not doing, but simply being.  Central Park is not just an escape from the city, but from the lives we live as inhabitants of the city.

When I wake up, the first thing I do is look at my watch... and so it begins.  Immediately I am flooded with thoughts of all that I must do today and the accompanying anxiety provoked by the thought that I can't get it all done.  As soon as I step into my sneakers and slip Pippen's harness over her head, we are both eager to get to the park.  Once inside the park Pippen's leash comes off and my anxieties dissipate simultaneously.  Central Park is my sanctuary, my asylum from the chaos of my own life and helps me to cultivate exuberence and equinimity in my daily life.  I'm not a natural city girl and the adjustment has been a slow one.  But inspiration is everywhere, it just takes an open mind, willing body, and eager spirit.

What in your life inspires you?

                                                              Pippen home in bed