Uspenski Cathedral and Tuorinniemi beach

To reward myself for surviving and thriving in Helsinki on my own, I decided to travel to peaceful areas in Helsinki. Similar to the Silent Temple, Uspenski Cathedral is a place to pray and meditate. It also is a historical landmark in Helsinki. On top of a steep hill, Uspenski makes its visitors feel like they are a bird overlooking the city. The climb was difficult, but the view was worth it. I stood staring at the cityscape for a while, feeling the breeze relax my mind and body. Having struggled with anxiety, I do not ever let myself slow down and live in the present without worry. This journey has helped me be comfortable with the unknowns and trust my instincts. I know I have a long way to go in my mission to be at peace with myself and to accept the lack of control around me. However, this trip is making me hopeful for the future and the individual I am destined to be. Helsinki is giving me endless amount of opportunities to progress forward as a student, life-long learner, traveler, and a well-rounded individual.

After visiting Uspenski, I decided to go shopping for more food because it had been almost a week since I had bought meals for myself. The grocery stores in Herttoniemi are similar to a Giant Eagle. Although I cannot read Finnish, it was easy for me to understand the signs, labels, and prices. Surprisingly, the prices were not as expensive as I anticipated. However, I am still on a budget and cannot eat expensive meals. I bought some Finnish specialties, such as spinach pancakes, lohi (deli sliced salmon), pastries, and reindeer meatballs the first time at the market. I loved the salmon, the pastries, and pancakes, but reindeer meat is definitely not my favorite. This time around I decided to get more cereal, eggs, bread, cheese, veggies, soup, milk, and other basic food items. I am definitely not living my healthiest life, but the stores do offer items that fit healthy or limited diets.

The next day, I wrote in my personal journal at Tuorinniemi beach, an eight minute walk from my Airbnb. Helsinki never ceases to amaze me with its beauty! Families were soaking in the sunshine and looked like they had no worries in the world. Couples were biking along the numerous paths and side walks. Individuals were sitting and smiling off into the distance. It felt like a joyous paradise. I wrote in my journal while sitting on a rock as the day passed by. I am thankful for the chance to reflect, organize my thoughts, and enjoy the nature around me.