I visited one of my favorite lakes last weekend, which is nestled in the Sierra Mountains surrounded by trees, rocks, and fresh water running down from winter’s old snow banks. The circumference of the lake is approximately three miles. Last summer I trained for the triathlon and I used to run around the lake. Trail running is therapeutic for me. I’m able to focus on the step in front of me and appreciate the natural surroundings. All of my stresses start to dissipate as my blood capillaries expand and my body receives higher amounts of oxygen. Mountains and great bodies of water give me a new perspective on situations. It makes me aware of the bigger picture of life and allows me to step out of a situation I may be in and realize that life is simple.

It’s easy to get caught up in daily life, fast pace cities, and busy schedules. Mountains remind me how small my life is in comparison to the world and universe. The Sierra Mountain Range was created over millions of years through oceanic plates, earthquakes, ice ages, and rivers. You can see the different layers of sediment and rocks that took thousands of years to develop. When I think about the length of my life compared to the life of a mountain, I feel humbled. Our planet has experienced far more than I could ever imagine.