By Emily Barlow
How do you explain the feeling you get when you see fields that stretch as far as the eye can see? When you are driving through changing landscapes, gazing out the window and belting out John Williamson classic with a couple of your mates.
Recently, I spent ten days driving and camping around our great southern state, Tasmania.
It was more or less a spontaneous decision â a couple of friends drinking wine and eating dumplings and one pikes up, âLetâs go to Tasmania, wouldnât it be wonderful?â A few weeks in to our university semester, bombarded with assessment and the mundane ritual of work and class, this idea doesnât seem so bad at all.
Within ten minutes we have booked flights to take a well-needed, wholesome trip away.
The last time I went to Tassie, I was eight years oldâŠÂ distinct memories of picking blackberries on the side of the road, gazing up at cascading waterfalls and exploring the harrowing heritage of Australiaâs convicts all excited me for another exploration, 15 years on.
Tasmania is full of those quaint little towns where you find yourself questioning what on earth people could be doing there for a living. Hobart of course is a minefield for craft breweries and distilleries, restaurants and the eerily sensational MONA. But down south at Cockle Creek, the Ida Bay Historic Railway makes coin by taking tourists on 2-hour trips in an old miniature train along a 14km railway line. Sheffield hosts its annual Mural Festival to celebrate the art and culture of Tasmania. Strahan boasts its fishing expertise and carpentry of native Tasmanian woods into furniture, utensils, ornaments and artwork. And Bruny Island flourishes on its wineries, berry farms, and oysters. Yes, Drive-Thru oysters at $14 a dozen from âGet Shucked Oyster Farmâ is a thing. Thatâs fresh.
Almost half of Tasmania lies in reserves, national parks and World Heritage Sites – and my god, it is beautiful. From native alpine wildflowers, to luscious rainforest and crystal waters on sandy beaches. And one of the best parts? Very little phone reception. Chilly nights by the campfire, drinking local ciders, and giving yourself some time off â could you really ask for more?
Itâs a trip like this that helps remind me the importance of taking the time to breathe, get in touch with nature, and do something good for yourself. Live your best life.
If you arenât really sure how, weâve got some opportunities to boost that confidence.
Why not try:
·     Monday Meditation with Grant Lyndon and Silent Source on May 25
·     Live Your Best Life: 7 Tools to Reduce Fear & Increase Creativity with Lou Robinson on May 13
Or try something a little bit crafty! If Tassie can do it, so can you.