OUTDOOR CORNER: NATURE PERFORMS ITS MAGIC EVEN IN THE IDLE MOMENTS

You are paddling down an Ozark river with a gentle breeze dancing across your face. The early morning song of a brightly colored warbler catches your attention as you tie on your favorite lure. You get the strange feeling that you are the only person for miles around. The gleam from the water distracts you into wondering if any darters are hiding in that gravel riffle. That is when it hits you. You haven't even cast your line out to fish and you already feel better!

If something like this has never happened to you, it should. Missourians will travel into the outdoors this summer for vacations, road trips and weekend get aways. Good weather will no doubt spur thoughts of taking a hike or boating on the lake. The opportunity to observe nature's splendor firsthand will be at your fingertips.

The reason for getting out in nature is different for everyone, but one theme is universal. Nature can be relaxing. Phones ringing and stacks of paper do not reduce tension. A gentle rainstorm or a chorus of frogs, however, can soothe your nerves.

It is when we pay attention to what is available in a Conservation Area, Or a natural area that we forget about the daily grind and the minor grievances of everyday life. Research indicates plants have a therapeutic affect on people's attitudes. Anyone who has ever stood in awe of a giant oak tree doesn't need research to tell them that.

Too often I meet people that go fishing or hunting and are noticeably upset about the day due to their performance. A good day should not be measured by how full your stringer is. Instead it might be better to remind yourself you could be inside unable to get away.

The moments in between fish strikes or game animals walking into view should be filled with the sights and sounds of the forest. Seldom will others see the things you will chance upon while outdoors. Perhaps it will be a coyote chasing down a rabbit, or a fragile orchid in bloom.

Depending on your interests you may decide to bring a field guide for ferns, wildflowers, or even birds. This will allow you to know the surroundings even better and perhaps enjoy them more. Tapes of bird and frog calls can also be useful for interpreting wild things. The whole point is enjoy what is out there and not to ignore it.

So as you plan your outings and vacations be sure to include some time to let nature do what you came there for -- relax you. The next chance you have to get outside, don't let something neat go unnoticed and unappreciated!

A.J. Hendershott is an education consultant with the Missouri Department of Conservation.