Perhaps all the snow and gray days we have been experiencing lately here in Edmonton, have pushed me to want to go back to some vibrant colors... whatever the reason they are back! My niece and her partner, just came back from a week long tropical vacation and they had a wonderful time... just hearing about their trip made me feel like I had been there too! Once you have experienced a tropical destination with sun, sand and surf, it is hard not to 'go there' in your head when someone shares stories of their trip with you.
This pleasant daydreaming/reminiscing is very beneficial because it allows our bodies to re-experience the fun, relaxation and joy all over again, creating a parasympathetic response which can lower our blood pressure, boost our immune system and generally make us feel happier. Maybe we can all save some money by having 'virtual vacations' now and then, although, as the saying goes, "there is nothing like the real thing!"
10x10 oil on canvas