12 Ways People In Kentucky Can Relax And Take It Easy
By Jenn Shockley|Published December 11, 2015
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Jenn Shockley
Author
I am somewhat a cliche'. I grew up running around barefoot on a farm in Kentucky.
I love writing, art, sunshine, all animals and my incredibly patient husband, who tolerates my "crazy animal lady" side.
We all need to take time in life to relax and take it easy, even in Kentucky. Other states may see us as laid back and relaxed all the time, but this just isn’t so. Our big cities get to hustle and bustle too, just not on the same insane level as places like New York. Small towners work even harder, especially farmers and people who live off the land. We often times have to pencil in some us time.
Here are 12 ways Kentuckians can relax and take it easy:
Some prefer bourbon, some wine and some beer, but a lot of Kentuckians just like to leisurely sip a drink to relax. That drink doesn’t have to be alcoholic. It can be tea, lemonade, koolaid, or whatever your beverage of choice is. Either way, sitting and sipping is a good way to relax.
Most of us either enjoy hearing some type of music, or play an instrument. Both of which can be extremely relaxing. Bluegrass is our state music, and is actually mixed into a lot of different genres. Whether you play or listen, music can ease one’s frayed nerves.
Hunting is not always about the hunted, but in some cases it is about getting out, alone in the woods, and blending in with the environment. We use to go sit in deer stands and just watch the deer and animals move around in their natural habitat. It can be serene.
Kentucky is home to "The Big Lebowski Festival", which was formed after the movie. A lot of people love to bowl here, and bowling alleys tend to be pretty booked on the weekends. Something about hurling a heavy ball down a slick wood isle and knocking over wooden pins is both exciting and relaxing.
There are some amazing rivers, lakes and creeks in Kentucky, each providing a special type of atmosphere. It is hard not to relax when floating on a lake, or sitting on a dock listening to the water slowly splash against the bank. Serenity at its best is often found near water.
Yes, it is early in the morn, but a Kentucky sunrise is breathtaking. It is a fantastic way to begin the day. Some people get up early for the sunset and then lay back down for a nap.
Walking has been proven to be physically healthy, but walking in the woods is mentally healthy as well. Just strolling through the woods and absorbing all the energy and beauty around us helps us feel even more a part of the land.
When the sun starts to set over the Kentucky hills and rivers, it can look like a master work painting. The vivid colors can seem almost surreal as the moon takes the sky.
Taking a drive through one of our beautiful state parks or in farm country can both be a beautiful way to relax. Our state is pretty as a postcard through and through. Just taking a slow ride and absorbing all that beauty is a great way to relax.
Spending a night or two in nature is a great way to relax and forget the toils and troubles of everyday life. There is something about being in touch with nature that makes most of us feel at peace. Some prefer a cabin, others a tent, but both ways of camping help us get in touch with nature and relax.
Any old timer will tell you it is important to relax while you fish. Some people enjoy sipping while they fish. Something about kicking back with the line in the water, while listening to the sound of the water and the wind.
Berea is the arts and crafts capital of Kentucky, but the entire state is filled with crafty people. We have painters, sculpters, whittlers, pottery makers, quilters, crotchetier, carvers, metal workers and more, each creating special works. A lot of Kentuckians slip into their workshops or studios when it is time to wind down and relax.
Some of these ways to relax likely cross over to other states. Please keep in mind, Kentuckians have our own special way of doing things. A quilt made in Maine will likely be nothing like one made in Kentucky. Just as fishing in a Michigan lake is a far different experience than being at one here. What is your favorite way to relax?
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