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Taking The Scenic Route


Not too long ago driving to run some errands I had to ask myself... "did I just see an albino turkey vulture? While I can only speculate if my unusual glimpse was true, sightings like these are not uncommon if you take the scenic route.

I’ve come to realize that taking the scenic route is one of my stress relief mechanisms. If you haven't tried it, I highly recommend it! Longer, out of the way trips have become even more cathartic as we slowly climb out of pandemic social distancing. And if there's any commonality in how we're all feeling now it's A) more stressed and B) in need of a different view other than our own 4 walls.


There are obvious reasons that the scenic route is a good stress reliever - nature. Nature in its beauty, rhythms, and awe can do wonders for the stresses in our modern-day life. Driving down a country road or winding parkway gives you time with nature even when you don't have time to walk in it. You're likely to spot some flowers you can't see at home - who knew sunflowers came in maroon? Maybe you’ll spot the fluffy tail of a deer galloping into cover. The best surprise is coming across a roadside stand with fresh produce or honey products for sale (if you're in the Akron area I highly recommend Jacobs heritage farm http://jacobsheritagefarm.com - a great little stand and a chance to see some farm animals too.)

Another impactful way that taking the scenic route is good to release stress is time. In this wired world that presents many demands on our brain, taking the long way home gives our minds some time to transition to the next part of our day. While you subliminally hum the Supertramp tune "Take the Long Way Home" you can mentally put a close on whatever you were previously doing and clear your mind for what you'll be doing at your next destination. This way, you can be fully present and enjoy your time at home with family or a visit with friends at your favorite outdoor patio.


The scenic route also has a similar effect as the shower- you can get some of the best ideas there! If you're having a mental or creative block and need to clear your mind for some fresh new ideas, try a drive down a windy or hilly road. Stuck on a color scheme for that project - BAM- look at those black and white geese floating in that bright green algae ridden pond. What nice complimentary colors. Driving down a familiar two-lane road noticing the contrast of textural clouds with the angular sights of the road ahead and EUREKA! You realize the perfect pairing of a script font with a simple San serif font.Your extended trip gave you an opportunity to see things in a new light, without even trying.

As Fall approaches and we continue to adapt to the life, stresses, and challenges of 2020 - take to the road less traveled. Perhaps you'll spot your own albino turkey vulture.


Photos by Janet Pahlau

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