Our Rural Roots

Meredith Bernard, Contributor

In the midst of "40-something" life, growing children who don't need me as much as they once did and the everyday stresses of farm life (i.e., life in general), I've come to be more aware of the importance of both my physical and mental health. The truth is, they go hand in hand, or as I've found, step-by-step.

I've never been one to sit around if I can help it, except when I must be tied to my computer -- and even then, I can't do it for long without a break. Working on a farm doesn't allow for grass to grow under my feet, either. But, it wasn't until I became intentional about taking daily walks that I realized the benefits for my mind, body and soul.

Science calls it grounding. I call it groundbreaking. Over time, I have walked hundreds of miles on our dirt road from home to barns and back again. Most days, I followed the same course, and even in the monotony, I found peace in the process. Working out my body, yes, but even more working out my faith, hopes, dreams, fears and failures.

Recently, I've taken a detour from the dirt road and made my way off the beaten path. I've started crossing pastures to trod up and down hills, ford creeks and watch my dog Dixie tree squirrels. I take time to listen and look for the elusive pileated woodpecker that intrigues me so much.

And, while I know the last few years of pounding the same path has been good for me in many ways, I now see that it was preparing me for this new road. With each hike, my endurance, and subsequently my faith, become stronger.

Sometimes, the road less traveled leads us to more meaning and strength, and an awareness of where we've been, in preparation for what's ahead. That's never a bad path to take.

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-- Meredith Bernard walks, writes, photographs and tends to farm and family from North Carolina. Follow her on social media @thisfarmwife, and visit her website at https://thisfarmwife.com/…

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