"I can't put this into words.  I'll say this:  Often bumpy roads lead to beautiful places.  And this is a beautiful place." -Davey Martinez (Manager of the World Champion Washington Nationals)

The world can be an unforgiving place.  We are faced with many challenges right now.  As you grow up in a world that can seem like it is full of danger and hate, please remember that there is still so much love and beauty out there.  We are blessed here in Central Virginia with some of the most beautiful natural places in not only the state, but in my opinion, the entire country.  Sometimes these places are hidden and sometimes they are right in our backyard.  You see, the natural world is a healing world.  By tapping into it's power, you can improve your wellness in so many ways.  I want to give you some views of my favorite places, in the hopes that maybe you can see the beauty and feel the healing power that I have in my life.  Thanks, and I hope to see you on the trail, or in the river, or maybe on that mountain top! 

-- Coach Shuma

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It's a known fact that simply being in nature helps us improve our mental state and reduce our stress.  The one thing that I love most about the nature in this area is all of the wildlife.  You would be amazed to know what lives among us.  From bald eagles flying high above Ragged Mountain Reservoir to Great Blue Heron's scooping up fish on the Rivanna river.  Or black bears (in my backyard), bobcats, coyotes and white tailed deer roaming through the fields, Charlottesville and Central Virginia is teeming with so much!  Through my explorations, I have been able to take pictures of so many cool things.  These rewarding experiences keep me coming back while keeping me fit and well!  

Next time you are out, look around to see if you can discover any of these awesome creatures!