Some days are simply exceptional, and today was one of them. It started with an e-bike ride over to Ocean Beach, one of my favorite places because it has managed to maintain its own unique character. Ocean Beach has a strong local identity, a community-oriented atmosphere, and a laid-back culture that appeals to surfers, cyclists, hippies, and people who simply enjoy a little individuality. It has good music, good food, and a welcoming atmosphere. It's just a fun place to spend time.
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| (Illustrative Only) Feel Free to Buy a Cup $25 free shipping. Buy Here Having a little fun with this. I learn by doing. |
But first, there was the morning.
I did a little work, jumped on my e-bike, and headed toward the beach. I grabbed a cup of coffee and spent some time working on my laptop. That's one of the advantages of being a digital nomad: you can work from different places and build some flexibility into your day. I enjoy working, and as long as you enjoy what you do, there's nothing wrong with putting in the hours. Afterward, I spent some time relaxing on the beach, enjoying the sunshine and the atmosphere.
I also stopped at the Ocean Beach People's Food Co-op, a particularly interesting local market that specializes in organic foods and other products. There's a $15 membership renewal fee, but anyone can shop there without joining, although members receive additional discounts. The prices are generally reasonable, and the selection includes organic fruits, vegetables, and specialty products that can be harder to find elsewhere.
What I particularly appreciate about this place is its cooperative business model. It's locally oriented and community-driven, representing an alternative to the large corporate grocery chains.
There's nothing wrong with corporations. They play an important role in the economy. However, there should be a balance between large corporations and small and medium-sized businesses. Over the years, policy decisions and economic consolidation have contributed to an environment in which a relatively small number of large companies hold considerable market power. The result is an economy that needs more competition and more opportunities for independent businesses.
Food cooperatives and organic markets offer one alternative. They promote local participation, organic products, and a different approach to doing business. There's a little counterculture spirit to these places, reminiscent of the 1970s, and I think that has value. We could use more community-based businesses and cooperatives to provide competition and give consumers more choices.
After shopping, I headed home and experimented with a new recipe. I'm not particularly big on tofu. I enjoy meat, hunting, and traditional meat-based meals. However, I thought I'd try something different. I combined tofu with carrots, onions, garlic, beef seasoning, and a few other spices. Everything went into the pan together, and we'll see how it turns out. If it's any good, I'll share the recipe.
One of the things I appreciated most about the morning was the opportunity to slow down. When you take your time and enjoy what you're doing, you often eliminate a lot of unnecessary running around. You don't have to be constantly moving from one place to another or filling every minute with activity.
Sometimes it's better to stay in one place, enjoy the surroundings, and appreciate what's happening right in front of you. Lying on the beach, listening to the ocean air, hearing people enjoying themselves, feeling the sunshine, and taking a little nap can be remarkably satisfying.
There's something to be said for being present in the moment. We spend so much time thinking about what we have to do next that we sometimes forget to enjoy what we're doing now.
So, with a little work accomplished, some exercise planned, a cup of coffee enjoyed, and my feet in the sand, I'd say the day got off to a pretty good start.
I don't know what makes everybody else happy, but for me, that's a pretty darn good way to begin the day.
Nurtured by Nature: The Mental and Cognitive Benefits of Spending Time Outdoors
Spending time in nature can improve mental health, reduce stress, and enhance emotional well-being.
Natural environments can improve concentration, attention, memory, and cognitive flexibility.
Exposure to green spaces, such as parks and forests, and blue spaces, such as oceans, lakes, and rivers, can have positive effects on psychological health.
Connecting with nature is associated with greater happiness, a stronger sense of purpose, and improved overall life satisfaction.
Research suggests that spending at least two hours per week in nature is associated with better health and well-being.
Even brief exposure to nature, including walking through a park, looking at trees, or listening to natural sounds, can provide mental benefits.
Access to nature during childhood may contribute to better long-term mental health.
Developing a stronger connection with nature can also encourage people to care more about the environment and its preservation.
American Psychological Association. (2025, April 8). Nurtured by nature. Monitor on Psychology, 51(3). https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature
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