Breath of Fresh Air
It is finally the time of year when we can open the windows and clear away the stale air of a long winter. I have been listening intently for the song of the robin confirming that spring has arrived. At the time of writing no song yet.
Today I am grateful for the circadian rhythm of the north and its four seasons. I feel the heat of the sun on my face and once again have a guide for the cardinal directions to assist my outdoor navigation As I dust off the cobwebs of winter, I am excited to become more active and get moving. It will be a few more weeks before I am certain the ice is gone, and I won’t be splashed by runoff. Hopefully I can avoid deep potholes filled with water on my travels.
I have joined a Quong class with Willow Moon Martial Arts and the beautiful Tammy Bilodeau. We are so fortunate to have such a humble dedicated master to this internal martial art. I have muscular memory from previous sighted classes that allows me to settle and connect with the practice. The series I am learning is a women’s series called Radiant Lotus. It is a beautiful gentle practice perfect for setting the tone and waking up for spring.
I have also recommitted to my yin yoga class at Blue Moon Yoga. I leave each class asking myself why I don’t do this more often….So I think I will. I have just found out that the Handi Dart schedule aligns with more classes that I can attend. A big thank-you to the yoga community that makes sure I have a ride home!
I am counting down the days until I can get out hiking and the benefits of nature. I rely on being tuned in and turned on as I navigate day to day that travelling on the well-defined trails at the community forest without the need for an elbow is a treat to look forward to for certain. The time between winter and mosquito season is short not to mentions bear awareness. No……I don’t hike alone on this trail.
My goal for this season is to navigate to the walking path on the northwest of town between the West By-pass Road and 100th Street by myself. If you see me on the trail, be sure to say hello or ring your bell so I know where you are! I am slowly becoming more confident and have spent the winter becoming more familiar with the technologies and skills that can help me navigate my world safely.
I am feeling much more confident going out and about independently with the help of the Handi Dart. I am participating in city budget meetings, Chamber of Commerce events that include Doig Treaty 101.
It has definitely been a journey in finding my confidence navigating my world and going out and about. Some days can be overwhelming and exhausting. A big thank-you to the folks that have taken the time to educate themselves and be aware of the different accommodations required for the blind and low vision. Perhaps in a future column will give a server and customer service 101 tutorial.
My hope with this column is to provide our community with tools and awareness on what my world looks like. I also hope to provide tools for the business community to provide to their staff to help them be aware of accommodations that make the difference.
Edwina Nearhood is a long time Fort St. John resident sharing her vision loss journey. Please remember, every person’s vision loss experience is as unique as they are.
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