The Open Spaces are Good Medicine

An Open Space Odyssey Continued

By Michael Landram, Volunteer

Robert and Mick complete the Wagon Wheel trail

The summit of White Hill is a great place for reflection.  It has the best panoramic view I’ve seen so far!  The 4 tallest peaks in Marin County are visible from there and the view is unobstructed for a full 360⁰.  I sat there contemplating mind, body, spirit and the contribution made by the Open Spaces.  Personally, I came to the goal of walking the entire Marin County Parks Open Space this year in part because I am Type II diabetic and needed to lower my blood sugar level.  I’m happy to report that my blood sugar levels are back below the therapeutic goal simply as a result of using the Marin’s open spaces for exercise and eating better.  I’ve also been able to reduce the dosage of prescription medication needed to treat the disease.  How great is that!  Maybe open space should be a prescription!

Looking down on all the green spaces and roads and houses got me thinking about the land, its history, and our place in it.  I couldn’t help but feel more connected.  It left me with a deeper sense of responsibility that we all share to take good care of this place for ourselves and those that follow.

Cascade Canyon

Join me on my odyssey on the trails of Marin County’s open space preserves! Contact me at michael.landram@yahoo.com if you’d like to come along. All hikes are on weekdays.

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