The weather in Galway today was simply stunning – in Ireland we are not always blessed with glorious weather so when we get even the tiniest bit of sun you can bet your bottom dollar that we milk it for all it’s worth. My boyfriend and I decided to spend the afternoon out in Salthill and to take a stroll along the promenade. A word of warning to those who are not from the area – if there is a little bit of sun the promenade becomes quite busy!
While we were walking my boyfriend suggested that we visit the Gardens that over look the sea. Now I have lived in Galway for well over 10 years and had never heard of these gardens! He led me into what I thought was someone’s driveway however when we went in I was stunned – there are beautiful, tranquil gardens with flowers and monuments to explore!
The gardens are actually the Circle of Life Commemorative Gardens. They are very tranquil and certainly relaxing and a place to clear your mind. Finding these gardens made me realise how much I just rush up and down the promenade to get my walk or run done and that I am not taking in my surroundings.
Remember to stop and breathe
In a world where it feels like there is always pressure to be a certain way (whether in your career, your homelife or even how you should look), there has to be a time to take a step back. To Breathe. Without taking a moment to be just you, to take a moment to get away – there is a risk of burnout OR as I have done – miss the beauty in the world around me.
We wandered around the gardens, reading the commemorative plaques and just enjoying the solitude. I have not felt such peace in quite a while. It is away from the hustle and bustle of the prom and you can just be. There are many articles around at the moment on the importance of mindfulness and how to mediate. I had not really taken notice until today and until I realized how much I am letting life rush me. I have decided to live more with intention and to take more moments like we had today – where we stepped away for a few moments but I felt energized as we left.
I would highly recommend that you take a wander through these gardens – they are situated between the two Hotels; Salthill Hotel and the Galway Bay Hotel. There is an information brochure here if you would like to learn more about the gardens.
So remember to stop and breathe – be mindful and aware of your mindfulness x
