Sojourns: 100 Trails of Enlightenment

There is nothing more exhilarating than a walk in the forest. Hiking the trails is a daily ritual for many on the California Central Coast, and for Jill Thayer, each path is a new adventure that inspires and renews her appreciation of the natural environment.
In Sojourns, Jill shares her favorite trails from Big Sur to Oceano Dunes and regions in between with resources on how to find them, and why they are her go-to places for balance, reflection, and a bit of exercise. A photographic essay captures the rich experiences from walks and hikes up and down rugged hills; across lush green meadows and fields of wildflowers; along winding forest paths of centuries-old oak, cypress, and eucalyptus trees; over chiseled sand dunes and windswept beaches; and atop dramatic cliffs that cascade down to the Pacific. Interspersed with favorite quotes that reveal the essence of the journey, the imagery takes you on a visual narrative of discovery through exquisite trails of the region, and beckons to the wanderlust of your imagination.
Make time to immerse yourself in the healing power of nature. Sojourns seeks to inspire you to get out, connect with our natural environment, and embrace the conservation of our land and Pacific coastline. Take a deep breath and fill your senses with wonder and solace from a hurried world.

Jill Thayer, Ph.D. is an artist, educator, curator, art historian, marketing strategist, podcaster, and writer. She holds a doctorate in cultural studies/museum studies from Claremont Graduate University and is an associate professor teaching at colleges and universities nationally. Jill is a contributing writer for art publications and host of The Art of Life podcast.