Eureka Springs, Arkansas, in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, offers a unique blend of nature-made and man-made surroundings. Throughout town are numerous exposed bluffs and springs mixed with historic buildings that combine to create the magic that is Eureka Springs.

  This magic also exists throughout the hilltops and hollows in the surrounding area. The feeling of this landscape is why the Ozarks will always be home to me and much of the reason I first began to seriously venture outdoors.

  I have been actively engaged in various outdoor pursuits for the past ten years, and I am often asked why I like to surround myself with large sections of wild land. Some of the reasons why I choose to spend time in the outdoors have shifted over the years, but there is one core reason that has never changed and will always stay the same: Spending time in the wilderness allows me to focus on life without distraction.

  I remember sitting in Mass Communications class at the University of Arkansas while the professor was speaking about mass media and how influential it can be and how much of it there is. He said average Americans encounter at least six different types of media before they get to work in the morning. That lecture helped raise my awareness of the powerful influence television, internet, radio, print and other media have on our daily lives.

  Around that time I began to explore the natural beauty of Northwest Arkansas. Time spent hiking and backpacking helped me realize there is no media distraction when I am in the woods. I discovered this is how things were meant to be, a simple interface between a human and the natural environment without a distracting message attached.

  I remember experiencing serious sensory overload after returning from my first wilderness trip that lasted longer than two weeks. I was tired, dirty and hungry. It was early morning, still dark, as I pulled into the glowing parking lot of the combination Burger King/Mini-mart/Gas station. I couldn't believe the amount of information that was being thrown at me all at once. Instead of embracing all the fluorescent goodies that place had to offer, I just sat in the car and stared.

  Looking back, I realize what a powerful experience that really was. Although I have been able to smooth out the transition from the natural world to the "real" world over the years, I still get a little weirded-out.

  So, when people ask: "Why do you like to visit wild places?" I tell them, "Because it allows me to focus on life without distraction."

  In our modern times, it is quite easy to become distracted and stressed with the wants and needs of everyday life. A little time outside with the sounds of songbirds and flowing water can be quite relaxing. A little time gazing out over a forest-filled valley can really put things into perspective.

  As we move into the beauty of fall, remember that it's okay to check-out of the "real" world and surround yourself with the beauty of nature every once in a while. Take a walk, hike a trail, paddle a canoe and fully appreciate life with the absence of distraction.