Your Happy Place

Do you have a happy place? A happy place is a memory that helps ground you. It connects you to your source, or essence. Visiting it can shift your attitude. It can bring you peace.

My happy place was a spot in Muir Woods in California. Picture a clear, gentle stream slowly meandering through a cathedral composed of giant red woods. I visited Muir Woods close to ten years ago, and I revisit it often in my imagination, especially when I am feeling anxious.

A few years ago, I discovered another happy spot. I stumbled upon a beautiful green pond at the bottom of a waterfall outside of Conway, New Hampshire.

I can’t explain why, but this place seems magical. It’s the kind of place you’d expect to find fairies, nymphs, and satyrs hidden behind the boulders, trees, and bushes. Green, blue, gray, rust. Cool and quiet. Its beauty is so startling that it almost feels surreal.

Happy places aren’t always visual. For some, listening to a beautiful piece of music can transport them to their special spot. Others may experience theirs touching a piece of worn fabric or holding the hand of someone they love.

What’s wonderful about happy places is that you can visit them at any time. No advance tickets to purchase, passport photos to shoot, shots to take, or bags to pack. You can be there in less than a minute.

And when you’re there? Serenity washes over you. You know you are safe; you’re not alone. You know all is right with the world.

What is your happy place? Write and tell me about it. I’d like to know.




By Randy Siegel