by Susan Miller, Director of Marketing/Communications
Let’s face it, most of us spend a lot of time on overload! The evening news can be maddening, our electronic devices can be distracting and our daily to-do list is typically longer than the hours we have to accomplish it. Add to that family, work, social and financial tensions – and day-to-day life can feel like a pressure cooker. Heck, even a job at camp can be daunting and demanding.
When life’s stressors start to pile up, I try to take a step back, take a deep breath and find a way to regain my composure and quiet my mind. It helps that I’m here – in arguably one of the most beautiful places in South Jersey – deep in the woods at YMCA Camp Ockanickon. The view from my tiny, dusty, drafty, rustic, jam-packed office is nothing short of spectacular – and I appreciate it every day. The co-workers who toil nearby are phenomenal people – all striving for the same worthy cause. These realizations comfort and sustain me. Before long, my heart-rate returns to normal, my palms stop sweating, a smile replaces my grimace and serenity takes the place of worry. For me, the beauty of camp is an antidote for anxiety. Perhaps it can be for you, too.
Before summer camp season is upon us, consider taking part in one (or more) of our relaxing, unplugged, family friendly programs: Father/Child Weekend (April 27-29), Family Fun Day (May 6), Mother/Child Weekend (May 11-13 – including Mother’s Day Brunch) and Memorial Day Family Camp Weekend (May 25-28).
In the meantime, take care of yourself. Take the symptoms of stress and overload seriously. And find a way to escape when you need to. We’re here for you!
(Check out how stress can affect you: https://www.healthline.com/health/stress/effects-on-body#1)