If there was one thing that I anticipated moving to Dumaguete, it was exploring the diving spots at a nearby place called Dauin.
Dauin is only 20 minutes ride from Dumaguete City. The place is already well known to many locals and even foreigners. Perhaps because not only the place is thriving with corals and sea creatures, it is probably the only decent beach near the city proper.
A new found friend I made here in Dumaguete invited me to go for a freedive last weekend. Just the needed rejuvenation I was longing for since moving here. The fresh breeze, the smell of the sea, the soft feel of the sand under my feet, and the lulling of the water as I float - All these made me say yes immediately to the invitation.
And so with a 38 pesos bus fare, I arrived at Dauin noon time. Despite the scorching heat, it was refreshing to be back at the beach. I was feeling a bit shy when I arrived at MabuhayDumaguete Dive Center. I didn't new anyone and my friend was already under the water but none the less I settled down and took some time to just watch the beach, the people passing by, some of them playing volleyball despite the heat, and others lying comfortably on lounge beach chairs.
While waiting for my friend to arrive, I enjoyed my little short time alone in peace. I wondered how life has been challenging lately and yet beautiful. My thoughts brought me to my encounter with the doctor the previous day and was told I have this condition. Well, glad I finally had a reason for my mood swings, constant crying for no reason, fatigue, erratic heart beat, and hair fall. And all this because of stress. Somehow I missed those times when I was at my hometown and just living simply, peacefully and with no stress.
Despite all these, I'm still grateful to be able to enjoy traveling and witnessing such beauty right in front of me. A reminder that its ok to take a break, to set boundaries, and prioritize rest.