When my family was in town a few weeks ago we decided to treat ourselves to a soak in local hot springs. We (read I) wanted to go to the place near Canon City that is bathing suit optional and very reasonably priced; however, it was closed each time we tried. Instead, we found a tranquil oasis in Manitou Springs surrounded by wild sunflowers. This spa has three levels of cedar soak tubs at varying temperatures. They also have a traditional sauna, an infrared sauna, plunge pools, and a saline pool. We paid $25 for two hours of soaking which was a great price for these accommodations.

The entire experience left me feeling serene, reinvigorated, and bloated from the hot water. I don’t usually subscribe to this kind of “self-care”, but I decided that my body has been through so much since April, I owe it to myself to focus specifically on my physical and mental well being. Marinating in the quiet tubs gave me time to think, meditate, and put conscious energy towards healing my body without the chemicals and pain of modern medicine.

At one point a young doe appeared on the hillside eating the small flora emerging between large rocks about ten feet away from the pools. I learned from a dear (see what I did there? 🙂 )friend the importance and meaning of spotting various wildlife in our daily paths. She taught me that deer, specifically a doe, represents powers in nature that are not easily subdued. Does are adaptable, cautious, and full of life. They can represent instinctual energy, independence, and regeneration. This is eerily parallel to the energy I wanted to manifest while soaking. Deers grow new antlers every year, and so I, much like a deer, will have to wait for the season to renew what I have lost through my illness. Recognizing this parallel in such a peaceful setting was profound and delightful.

Thank you for reading!

Maegan