I recently spent time at a mindfulness retreat in the Santa Cruz, California redwoods. I re-read Narrow Road to the Interior by Matsuo Basho on the plane ride there, as inspiration for the following short haibun:
♦
traveling solo
offers strength, restoration,
silence, bravery
♦
It smells like I’m camping, with the smoky fire pits and fragrant trees. It brings fall into my heart, even though there still may be one final warm spell when I return home.
♦
two seasons collide
a smoky, warm fireplace, and
sweet honeysuckle
♦
By 11:00 am, I had completed a yoga class, a Qigong class, and a nature hike. I felt alive, alert, and loose.
♦
shoulders fall, loosen
retreating from daily life
mind and body heal
♦
qigong’s fire, earth, wood
body lengthened, awakened
metal and water
♦
After a lovely three-hour reading session, I retreated for the evening to then hear an abundance of crickets – the most I had heard in some time. I walked to the balcony and recorded their music on my phone. Maybe I’ll use it to lull me to sleep upon my return.
♦
bright and crackling fires
crickets repeat their welcome
erase warm summer
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I need to remember to cook with a variety of ingredients. The food is local and organic and so very creative. I felt healthy and peaceful sitting outside enjoying breakfast.
♦
rays peer through redwoods
birds sing good morning wishes
beneath verdant gold
Writing and image by Jennifer Fifield
See Books and Breezes webpage: September 2018 Haibun.
