Be Grounded｜Exploring a Hidden Park in Ann Arbor 🌿

I returned to Ann Arbor early this summer, and I have to say — summer here is so much more livable than winter! While AA is known for its natural beauty among American college towns, we often hear about the same few parks: Gallup Park for paddling, Nichols Arboretum, Riverside Park… but what about the others? This weekend, I decided to explore somewhere new. I looked up nearby parks on Google Maps and found West Park — just a 10-minute walk from Central Campus apartments. Tucked quietly among local houses, it first appeared a bit quirky with its small cluster of playground structures. But as I walked further, I entered a wide, green world that felt refreshingly open and natural. 🌱 I absolutely love vast stretches of semi-wild grassland — the kind that feels untouched rather than designed just for barbecues. Compared to the steep, often crowded lawns at the Arb, West Park offers flat, expansive green spaces that feel alive and peaceful. 🦆 There’s a pond with ducks that aren’t afraid of people! They didn’t rush away when I approached — some even swam closer. It reminded me of the ducks at West Lake back home, though these seemed much more relaxed around humans. The park also has winding trails, old stairways leading to overlooks, and a raw, almost preserved feeling — less “manicured” and more “authentic.” I really vibed with that. 🌀 Being outside in nature always lifts my mood and energizes me. I once took a chakra test and found my root chakra was underactive — which made sense. The root chakra (Muladhara in Sanskrit) represents our foundation and connection to the earth — both literally and symbolically. It’s about feeling grounded, safe, and secure. Am I easily anxious? Do I feel supported? Can I stay calm under pressure?😊 Walking barefoot or mindfully, feeling the grass, listening to birds, smelling the soil — these simple acts help me reconnect with my body and the present moment. I remember: I am here. Right now. Real.👍 If you often feel stuck, fearful, or disconnected — try spending more time outside. Let yourself sense your body. Listen. Breathe. Touch. Feeling grounded is the first step toward living with more energy and calm 🌍💫 #AnnArbor #HiddenGems #RootChakra #Grounding #NatureTherapy #Mindfulness #ParksOfAA #BePresent