![t1e2u1.jpg](https://img.esteem.app/t1e2u1.jpg)

Beauty in nature is rarely elusive.  No matter where you live, there are natural features that stand out.  These features may stand to hide or overshadow the hazards that are there.  Ensure that you are not overcome by the harm that may be concealed by the beauty of nature.

As a desert dweller, sunsets,palm trees and exotic animals are sights to be seen.  Giant rock formations and shadows from clouds overhead may conceal hazards.  Snakes, dehydration, Sun and dangerous falls are omnipresent in the desert.  In the forest, we may become lost or freeze as the Sun sets early in the Winter.

Ignoring or overlooking hazards or negative consequences is a common piece of the human experience.  We have an internal autopilot that helps our brain save power and energy when we are in the familiar environment.  We need to disengage this autopilot and be in the moment.  

Much like the angler fish, nature and our surroundings may lure us into a false sense of security after dazzling us.  Distractions and diversions, especially those that are far from our normal operations take a minute for our brain to register.  When we hear a rattle snake'a rattle, we may be started, but before that we may be lulled by a beautiful desert landscape.  Being aware and awake is absolutely key to survival.

How do we ensure we stay safe?  By planning, learning about the hazards of the places we will visit, and being aware of nature when we may be in awe of it.  We need to be in the moment and use our eyes, ears and senses to survey the land and be honest if we are in danger.  Keep yourself safe in nature, especially after a long Pandemic lockdown.

Image from Pixabay.