Slowing Down Time—One Park Visit at a Time

Just a month ago, I was deep in planning “summer camp” adventures at our state parks. Now, school is already back in session in parts of South Carolina—including for my own kids! If you’re like me, you’ve probably noticed how time seems to speed up the older we get. Life demands quick pivots—from summer fun to school routines, from one fiscal year to the next—and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

So as we step into a new school year, a new fiscal year, and the second half of the calendar year, I want to offer a gentle reminder: nature has a way of slowing things down. Put down your phone, step away from the noise, and just be outside. (And yes, science backs this up—being in nature can lower your blood pressure and calm your mind… unless you’re being chased by a grizzly bear, of course!)

As a working mom of four kids, four pets, dozens of plants, and two fish tanks, I know how hard it is to find a moment to breathe. But I live by the “put on your own oxygen mask first” philosophy. Here are a few simple ways I slow the clock—and maybe they’ll help you too:

Listen to the birds.

Sitting in the yard, away from traffic, and tuning into birdsong while soaking up the sun is pure magic. When I’m stuck indoors, I visit the Huntington Beach Nature Center webcam for a virtual dose of nature.

Take a walk. 

Whether it’s in a state park or just around my neighborhood, walking helps me reset. Morning walks set the tone for my workday, and evening walks help me shift into family mode. Can’t get outside? Even watching someone walk in nature—like in one of our Instagram reels—can boost your mood. 

Find water. 

Rain on a tin roof, paddling a quiet river, or standing near a waterfall—water has a way of calming the soul. My personal favorite? Sitting on the back porch during a rainstorm, listening to the rhythmic patter and letting the world slow down for a while. There are countless ways to experience this in our parks. Learn more about the geography across the state here.

Take a bike ride. 

Taking a bike ride is a great way for me to clear my mind, feel the rush of air on my face, and sometimes break a sweat. My favorite quote is from Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen): “The cure for anything is salt water: sweat, tears, or the sea.” I couldn’t agree more. Curious what biking at Sesquicentennial looks like—with a little humor thrown in? 

Check out this fun video of me in action!

I also asked a few of our amazing staff how they 'slow the clock.' Here’s what they shared:

"Spending time in the state park with my daughter, quietly waiting to capture photos of bugs and birds, teaches us both to slow down, be patient, and truly observe the world around us. It’s a calming reminder of how much beauty you can find when you’re still."

-John Wells, Park Manager, Sesquicentennial & Goodale State Parks

"Seeing my child smile or laugh, or stepping outside and taking deep breaths in and out, reminds me that joy is always within reach."

-Sarah Pardue, Chief of Budget & Revenue

"One of the most beautiful and relaxing things to do while visiting parks is watching the sunset. There is something calming to me when I see all of the different colors the sunset brings. Looking over the marsh at Hunting Island will provide you with an incredible sunset."

-Daniel Gambrell, Chief of Operations

Now step outside and let that fresh air do its magic. Instant mood boost! No screens, no pings—just trails to hike, balls to kick, and maybe a trip to the zoo to say hi to Madame, the pig at Charles Towne Landing! 

Sometimes the best way to slow down is to speed up the fun. Nature’s got the best reset button around!

JER

July 2025