After our remarkable trip to Venice and the mountains, it was time to focus on my work. I threw myself into my practice, but I ended up feeling completely drained by the weekends. To truly recharge and prepare for the workweek ahead, I needed those two days. Yet, simply lounging around the living room didn’t rejuvenate me. I firmly believe that nature is my best medicine. So, I decided to take my Land Rover Defender and venture into the Dutch countryside to the Beleven Nature Reserve in Reusel.

This destination is a true haven for bird lovers, with the Spoonbill often making an appearance. It’s a significant breeding ground for various meadow birds, and from a unique wooden deck designed like a mammoth, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape. Sandy paths meander throughout “Het Beleven,” lined with lush verges and wooded areas.

When I arrived with my camera gear from Canon and Hasselblad, I was eager to immerse myself in birdwatching. Though I wasn’t at my peak energy, the simple joy of being outdoors again was invigorating. Yet, it was not the birds that first captivated me. As I paused at the wooden viewing platform along the shimmering waters, I was greeted by a breathtaking rainbow. As captured in the image, that moment reignited my energy and spirit! I felt profoundly blessed, enveloped by the restorative embrace of nature’s finest medicine. The rainbow echoed my inner sentiments perfectly. It stands as a powerful symbol of hope, peace, and comfort—a literal beam of light penetrating dark times. It represents new beginnings and serves as a reminder that even a small ray of sunshine can add vibrant color to our lives during gloomy moments.

So it did!

I grabbed my Canon camera equipped with its impressive 500mm f/4 lens and extender in hand. This robust lens weighs nearly 7 kg, but it’s worth every ounce. What’s truly astonishing is the dramatic transformation of this place over the years. Once just barren cornfields, it has now blossomed into a vibrant ecosystem. The deep drainage ditches have been filled, and the enriched soil has been revitalized, creating an ideal habitat for wildlife. A visit here not only rejuvenates the spirit but also powerfully illustrates nature’s ability to heal and thrive.

I was fortunate enough to spot some magnificent white herons just a short distance away. At about 10 meters, we locked eyes, and in that moment, my mission became clear: to showcase their beauty in every image I captured.

We can gain invaluable insights from this magnificent creature. The connection is evident in the images we behold. The heron symbolizes the vital role of silence, solitude, and deep inner reflection. Take a moment to step back from the chaos of everyday life and honestly examine yourself, just as the heron patiently observes the water’s edge. It conveys an important lesson: nurture patience within yourself and extend it to others, recognizing that genuine insights often arise when we least expect them. Trust your intuition and listen to the soft voice within that guides your path. Seek out moments of solitude and silence to strengthen your bond with your inner self. And there it was by the water, providing a chance for me to escape the clutter of my living room and reflect on my thoughts. I couldn’t have found clearer answers. So, I invited the heron to demonstrate its strength and allow me to witness the grandeur of its wings in flight.

After just a few moments, I lifted my Canon 500mm lens skyward, and the images I captured beautifully showcased the elegance of the heron in that fleeting instance. Even now, I get chills reflecting on that experience; it was a powerful connection between humanity and nature. With tears of joy in my eyes, I reviewed the shots, realizing I had immortalized that moment perfectly with my Canon R3 camera. And just like that, it was absolutely incredible!

With immense gratitude, I took the opportunity to capture more images of this breathtaking place, teeming with a variety of birds, including elegant herons in the background. I was also amazed to discover some busy fish that I had previously overlooked, adding to the charm of this stunning location.

It was truly amazing to witness the fish swimming so close and taking in air.

What an unforgettable afternoon! In just one hour at this spot, my entire day transformed. I went from feeling uninspired and low on energy to being rejuvenated by the wonders of nature, feeling its vitality invigorate me. This renewed sense of energy prepared me for the busy days ahead, and I felt eager to tackle the challenges!

It reminded me that the outdoors offer boundless freedom, and at any moment, we can witness extraordinary moments right before our eyes.

 

I hope you enjoy the images as much as I enjoyed capturing them!

 

Thank you!