Finding a happy place is so crucial to life. Whether you are struggling with depression like I am or you just live an extremely busy life, having that one place to go when all else seems to fail you or go wrong is one of the most refreshing and rewarding things you can do for yourself.

Recently, I had the chance to return to Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure. While I have lived in California my whole life and have been to Disneyland more times than I have fingers and toes to count, there is something about that environment and atmosphere that is refreshing and rejuvenating.

My life can often be overwhelming for me. Loneliness and stress are my biggest triggers for episodes. Going to Disneyland could not have come at a better time. I am knee-deep in my last semester of college with a bunch of what-next questions looming before me.

Sure, going on thrilling rides and roller coasters is a great way to spend the day but what I found to be refreshing and rejuvenating is the moment when I sat alone in the park while friends went on a ride and just enjoyed the ambiance of the room I sat in. As the Disney music played, kids ran excitedly across the room and friends took goofy-faced pictures around me. I felt a sense of peace wash over me. I had found my happy place.

For those of you knees deep in stress as I was, I urge you to find your happy place and make time for it as often as you possibly can. Setting aside time for yourself (no matter what that activity or location may be) is an incredibly important aspect to remaining a happy, healthy, peaceful you. A little happiness does the body good and all your loved ones will appreciate your taking the time for yourself when you come back a whole new calm person.