Heading out to enjoy some much-needed relaxation at a couple of hot springs today and tomorrow. I haven’t talked about it here, but the past 5-6 months I’ve been experiencing some significant neck pain, which has taken a big toll on my drive to get out, hike, and create. I spent a few months going to chiropractic, which in the past has helped me, but I didn’t see much progress. Just a few weeks ago I was able to get in to see a physical therapist; however, and am now taking a more holistic approach to recovering. Throughout this whole process, there have been several moments where I’ve felt very hopeless as I was in a definite state of not seeing any way out. I’m still not really sure what it’ll take to get back to a fully functional state, a state I’m hoping to be in time to do a bit of backpacking this season; however, I have been able to push myself that little bit to get out and create the past month. Creating, and being outdoors is one of the most rewarding/fulfilling experiences for me- this past week going down to SE Oregon, even while being in a state of discomfort the entire time, I found myself distracted and my spirits lifted by being outside and using my camera. The takeaway from this longwinded caption is that if you’re feeling down, or hopeless, or stressed, doing just a little bit of what you love can be enough to make it a bit easier to get started and motivate yourself each day. That and just getting outside and breathing in the fresh air, and soaking up the sunlight. Don’t be afraid to be “unproductive” if it means taking some time to pause, step back, and do some little thing that makes you happy. For me, that’s getting out and soaking this achy body in a hot springs! Haha. What about you guys? What are some things you do that light you up and lift your spirits?