Rooted in Presence: A Mindful Ride to the Barnegat Trail

The weather was so beautiful on Sunday that I couldn't resist loading my bike onto the rack and heading out to explore the Barnegat Trail. After riding for a while, I felt the familiar pull—a quiet beckoning to pause, to step off the path and into something deeper. I found a sit spot by a stream, as I often do. It's almost as if water calls to me- the ocean, a lake, or a simple stream. Each time, I feel that gentle nudge to slow down, cross the threshold from motion to stillness, leaving behind whatever feels heavy.

There is something deeply grounding about sit spots in the forest. They are places where I ask for nothing, and yet they offer everything. This spot, on this day, felt particularly special. What was it that drew me in? Why this patch of earth, next to this stream? As I spread my blanket, I noticed the roots.

Red cedar roots stretched across the forest floor, a vast web of intertwining life. Their presence was unmistakable—firm, straight, reaching out in all directions, connecting with each other beneath and on the earth's surface. It was difficult to find a space free of their intricate embrace. These roots were not just structures but living expressions of connection and care, sharing resources and nourishing their neighbors.

As I sat, my awareness was drawn to the roots once more. Trees along the stream's edge had exposed roots, clinging to the earth as the water continually shaped and carved the bank. These roots remained stable and secure even as they reached for the flowing water, a delicate balance between grounding and fluidity.

Out of all the wonders of the forest, the roots held my attention that day. Their strength, resilience, and quiet communication beneath the soil were reminders. The forest offered me roots as a symbol of grounded presence, stability, and security, even in times of change. Yet, they also whispered a lesson in flexibility—to remain fluid and open, to move with the flow of life, just as they reach for the running stream.

My sit spot reminded me to stay rooted, nourished, and connected while always flowing with what is. Nature, once again, provided exactly what I needed.