Have you ever wondered how many seasons Manaus, the heart of the Amazon Rainforest, experiences each year? It’s a question that piques the curiosity of many. While most of us are familiar with the traditional four seasons, Manaus has something quite unique to offer. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover the fascinating secrets of Manaus’ ever-changing climate.
In a nutshell, Manaus experiences not four, but two distinct seasons: the Dry Season and the Wet Season. These seasons may be vastly different from what you’re accustomed to, and they play a pivotal role in shaping life in this vibrant city. From the arid landscapes of the Dry Season to the lush, waterlogged expanses of the Wet Season, Manaus offers a dynamic and diverse climate experience that will leave you in awe.
As we delve deeper into the article, we’ll unravel the science behind Manaus’ unique seasons, discover the incredible natural events that occur during each phase, and explore how these seasons influence the local culture and daily life. So, if you’re ready to embark on an adventure through the seasons of Manaus, let’s dive in and unlock the mysteries of this captivating city!
Understanding Manaus’ Location
Nestled within the heart of Brazil, Manaus occupies a strategic geographical location that is both intriguing and influential, shaping not only its own destiny but also the broader environmental dynamics of the Amazon region. As we delve into the intricacies of Manaus’ location, we’re presented with a tale of geographic significance that extends far beyond mere coordinates on a map.
Manaus’ Geographical Location Within Brazil: Manaus, the capital of the state of Amazonas, sits proudly at the convergence of the Rio Negro and Solimões rivers. Its coordinates (3.1019° S latitude and 60.0250° W longitude) place it in the northwestern part of Brazil, but what truly distinguishes Manaus is its proximity to the equator. This strategic placement, just a stone’s throw from the equator, bestows upon the city a unique distinction in the realm of climate and environmental diversity.
The Influence of Proximity to the Equator: Manaus, like a sentinel guarding the equator’s secrets, enjoys a tropical rainforest climate with remarkably consistent day-length throughout the year. Its close proximity to the equator ensures that the sun’s rays strike with unwavering intensity, bringing about the hallmark of equatorial climates: warm temperatures year-round. This climatic stability is a stark departure from the seasonal variations experienced by regions farther from the equator. Here, Manaus stands as a testament to nature’s constancy, where residents and visitors alike can expect a perpetual embrace of warmth and tropical allure.
But the equator’s influence doesn’t stop at temperature alone. It extends to the phenomenon of photoperiodism, where day and night lengths remain nearly uniform throughout the year. This consistency profoundly impacts the biological rhythms of Manaus’ rich biodiversity, from the flourishing rainforests to the vibrant wildlife that call this region home. In essence, Manaus’ proximity to the equator has woven an intricate tapestry of life and light that defines the city’s essence.
The Significance of the Amazon Rainforest: Now, let’s turn our attention to the grand custodian of Manaus’ destiny—the Amazon Rainforest. As the city’s sprawling green neighbor, the Amazon Rainforest plays an irreplaceable role in shaping Manaus’ identity and climate. Not only does it act as a vast natural buffer against climate extremes, but it also contributes significantly to the city’s rainfall patterns.
The rainforest’s capacity to release massive volumes of moisture into the atmosphere through transpiration and evaporation is a pivotal factor in Manaus’ annual cycle of seasons. During the wet season, when the Amazon River swells and floods its banks, the rainforest’s ability to release moisture into the air enhances the city’s already impressive rainfall, making this period one of lush abundance. Conversely, in the dry season, when water levels recede, the rainforest still exerts its influence, mitigating the arid conditions that might otherwise prevail.
The Traditional Four Seasons vs. Manaus
Defining the traditional four seasons – spring, summer, autumn, and winter – is a journey through the cyclical metamorphosis that characterizes temperate regions across the globe. These seasons, marked by distinct weather patterns and natural phenomena, have been ingrained in our cultural consciousness for centuries. However, in the heart of the Amazonian jewel, Manaus, this familiar quartet of seasons yields to a climatic narrative that defies convention.
Defining the Traditional Four Seasons: Spring, with its delicate blooms and rejuvenating warmth, signifies a rebirth of life after the frigid embrace of winter. Summer, on the other hand, bathes landscapes in a golden hue, offering long, sun-drenched days perfect for outdoor escapades. Autumn transforms the world into a canvas of vibrant colors as leaves fall and temperatures begin to dip. And winter, with its frosty breath, wraps the environment in a serene, icy slumber. These seasons, a tapestry of change, epitomize the cyclical nature of temperate climates, reflecting Earth’s axial tilt and orbit around the sun.
How These Seasons Manifest in Temperate Regions: In temperate regions, the transition between these four seasons is a symphony of transformation. Spring emerges as blossoms unfurl and temperatures climb, with daylight gradually overtaking the night. Summer paints a picture of extended daylight hours and warm temperatures, drawing people outdoors for vacations and leisure. Autumn’s arrival is heralded by falling leaves and cooler temperatures, setting the stage for winter’s chilly entrance. Winter itself ushers in shorter days, colder air, and often, snowfall, altering the landscape into a winter wonderland.
Why the Traditional Four Seasons Do Not Apply to Manaus: Manaus, situated near the equator, presents a striking departure from the well-defined four-season narrative experienced in temperate regions. Here, the equatorial climate governs the city’s weather, disregarding the traditional seasons in favor of its own rhythm. The equator ensures consistent day lengths throughout the year, maintaining a tropical environment with warm temperatures and occasional rains. As a result, Manaus boasts not the spring awakening, summer splendor, autumnal hues, or wintry slumber of temperate regions. Instead, it showcases an unceasing vibrancy of life, where every day feels like a perpetual summer.
Furthermore, the Amazon Rainforest’s influence on Manaus is profound. It acts as a natural buffer against climatic extremes, mitigating any sharp fluctuations in temperature or weather patterns. The equatorial rainforest contributes to Manaus’ consistent, warm, and wet climate, with variations being more about wet and dry seasons rather than distinct seasons as experienced in temperate zones.
In essence, while the traditional four seasons hold sway in many parts of the world, Manaus dances to a different meteorological tune. Its equatorial embrace, coupled with the protective canopy of the Amazon Rainforest, ensures a climate of perpetual warmth and vitality, where the concept of winter coats and autumn leaves is as foreign as the idea of snowfall in summer. Manaus’ unique climatic identity is a testament to the wondrous diversity of our planet’s geographical tapestry, reminding us that nature’s artistry knows no bounds.
The Two Distinct Seasons of Manaus
In the heart of the Amazon Rainforest, Manaus boasts a unique climatic narrative that defies the traditional four-season paradigm experienced in many parts of the world. Here, the rhythm of life is orchestrated by the alternating symphony of the Dry Season and the Wet Season, two distinct and captivating chapters in Manaus’ meteorological story.
Introducing the Two Distinct Seasons: Manaus’ two distinct seasons are not merely weather patterns; they are transformative experiences that govern life within this lush, equatorial haven. These seasons pivot around the equator’s unwavering embrace and the Amazon Rainforest’s ever-watchful presence, resulting in a climate that dances to its own beat.
The Dry Season: Duration and Months: The Dry Season, the first act of Manaus’ meteorological duet, typically spans from June to November. These months are marked by a reduction in rainfall, although it’s important to note that “dry” is a relative term in the Amazon.
Characteristics: During the Dry Season, Manaus basks in the warm, golden embrace of the sun. Days are characterized by extended periods of sunshine, with rainfall becoming a rarity. Humidity levels dip, offering a respite from the sultry air that dominates the Wet Season. This season is favored by many travelers as it provides excellent conditions for exploring the city and its surrounding natural wonders. The reduced water levels of the Amazon River reveal sandy riverbanks and ease transportation along its tributaries.
The Wet Season: Duration and Months: The Wet Season, the second act in Manaus’ climatic performance, typically extends from December to May. These months bear witness to nature’s extravagant display of abundance, as rainfall becomes a daily companion.
Characteristics: In the Wet Season, Manaus is immersed in the sights and sounds of rainforest rejuvenation. Rainfall is frequent and abundant, transforming the region into a vibrant, green paradise. Humidity levels rise, saturating the air with moisture. The Amazon River swells, inundating the surrounding forests and creating an intricate network of waterways. While the Wet Season may deter some travelers, it is a time when the rainforest comes to life, with lush vegetation, thriving wildlife, and a mesmerizing cacophony of creatures filling the air.
Challenges and Wonders: It’s important to note that the Wet Season can present challenges, such as occasional flooding in certain areas and limited access to certain remote locations. However, for those seeking an immersive rainforest experience, this season is a revelation. The thriving flora and fauna, coupled with the dramatic transformation of the landscape, make it a remarkable time to explore Manaus’ natural wonders.
In conclusion, Manaus’ two distinct seasons, the Dry Season and the Wet Season, form the crux of its climatic identity. While the traditional four seasons may be absent here, the ever-changing dynamics of these two acts offer a captivating spectacle of nature’s power and resilience. Whether you choose to embrace the sunny warmth of the Dry Season or immerse yourself in the lush vibrancy of the Wet Season, Manaus invites you to witness the unparalleled beauty of the Amazon Rainforest in all its glory.
Factors Influencing Manaus’ Seasons
The enigmatic dance of Manaus’ seasons is orchestrated by an intricate interplay of environmental factors that collectively shape this vibrant Brazilian city’s climatic rhythm. At the heart of this meteorological symphony lies the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), the Amazon River, and an array of other contributing elements, each leaving an indelible mark on Manaus’ seasonal variations.
The Role of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ): The ITCZ, a dynamic and ever-shifting belt of converging trade winds, holds a pivotal role in Manaus’ climatic narrative. Positioned near the equator, it serves as the meteorological fulcrum around which Manaus’ seasons pivot. During the Wet Season, the ITCZ migrates closer to Manaus, drawing moisture-laden air from both hemispheres. This convergence of moist air masses results in prolific rainfall, characterizing the season. Conversely, during the Dry Season, the ITCZ retreats towards the equator, diminishing its influence and allowing for a respite from heavy rainfall. This cyclical movement of the ITCZ shapes the city’s wet and dry phases, ensuring Manaus’ perpetual transformation.
The Amazon River’s Influence on Seasonal Variations: The Amazon River, the lifeblood of the rainforest, wields immense power in sculpting Manaus’ seasons. During the Wet Season, as rainfall swells its tributaries, the river inundates vast swathes of the rainforest, creating a network of waterways that facilitate navigation and define the region’s landscape. The river’s rising waters serve as a testament to the season’s arrival, engendering a lush, waterlogged world. Conversely, in the Dry Season, the Amazon River experiences a noticeable drop in water levels, exposing sandy riverbanks and making transportation along its tributaries more challenging. This fluctuation in river levels is intrinsically tied to the ebb and flow of Manaus’ seasons, acting as a visual barometer of the city’s climatic cycle.
Other Environmental Factors at Play: Beyond the ITCZ and the Amazon River, a medley of environmental factors contributes to the dynamic interplay of Manaus’ seasons. These include:
Temperature Gradients: The equatorial location of Manaus ensures consistent and warm temperatures throughout the year, but subtle variations in temperature can impact the perception of the seasons. The Dry Season typically boasts slightly warmer temperatures and clearer skies, while the Wet Season brings relief in the form of slightly cooler temperatures.
Forest Canopy: The expansive canopy of the Amazon Rainforest acts as a natural shield against extreme weather conditions, tempering both heat and rainfall, and influencing seasonal transitions.
Local Geography: Manaus’ proximity to the river and its unique geographical features, such as the confluence of the Rio Negro and Solimões rivers, contribute to localized climate patterns and seasonal variations.
Humidity and Evaporation: The high humidity levels in the region, coupled with the evaporation of water from the river and rain-soaked earth, contribute to the moisture-rich atmosphere that defines the Wet Season.
Unique Natural Events During Seasons
In the heart of the Amazon Rainforest, Manaus’ unique climatic duality gives rise to a tapestry of natural events and phenomena, each distinctly characteristic of the Dry and Wet Seasons. These remarkable occurrences not only shape the landscape but also offer an immersive experience into the marvels of the rainforest’s annual cycle.
During the Dry Season:
Wildlife Behavior: The Dry Season, extending from June to November, heralds a remarkable transformation in the behavior of Manaus’ wildlife. As the rain wanes, water sources become scarcer, and the Amazon River and its tributaries recede, concentrating wildlife along the shrinking shores. This phenomenon creates ideal conditions for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers alike, as it’s during this time that charismatic creatures such as jaguars, capybaras, and giant otters are more easily spotted along the riverbanks. As water bodies shrink, caimans and anacondas become more concentrated, drawing in predators like the majestic harpy eagle. The Dry Season offers a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to witness the Amazon’s diverse inhabitants up close.
Forest Conditions: The Dry Season also leaves its mark on the rainforest itself. As rainfall diminishes, the forest floor becomes more accessible, revealing hidden treasures and geological formations that are obscured during the Wet Season. The forest canopy, adorned with lush foliage, provides a remarkable backdrop for exploration, while the reduced water levels make hiking and trekking more accessible. It’s a time when the forest displays its unique botanical diversity, with colorful blooms and a myriad of exotic plant species coming to the forefront. The Dry Season invites adventurers to discover the rainforest’s hidden wonders.
During the Wet Season:
Flooding: From December to May, the Wet Season announces its arrival with a spectacular display of nature’s power—the flooding of the Amazon River and its tributaries. This phenomenon, known as “várzea,” submerges vast expanses of the forest, creating a mesmerizing underwater world. While it may pose challenges for navigation and access to certain areas, it also nurtures the rainforest’s incredible biodiversity. Fish spawn in the nutrient-rich floodwaters, providing sustenance for numerous aquatic and avian species. The submerged forest floor teems with life, offering a haven for various fish, reptiles, and amphibians. The flooding is a testament to nature’s resilience and its ability to adapt to ever-changing conditions.
River Navigation: During the Wet Season, the Amazon River becomes a bustling highway. Rising waters allow for easier navigation along its extensive network of tributaries and channels, facilitating trade and transportation for communities residing along its banks. Manaus, as a major river port, experiences a flurry of activity during this time, with boats of all sizes ferrying goods and passengers up and down the river. The Wet Season’s floodwaters transform the river into a lifeline, connecting communities and enabling commerce.
Plant Growth: The Wet Season also ushers in a period of unparalleled plant growth. With abundant rainfall and high humidity, the rainforest flourishes, creating dense and vibrant foliage. The forest comes alive with a symphony of chirping birds, croaking frogs, and buzzing insects. Trees and vines burst forth with fresh leaves and blossoms, painting the landscape in a kaleidoscope of colors. The lush growth during this time provides vital sustenance for herbivorous animals and supports the rainforest’s intricate food web.
Impact on Local Culture and Daily Life
Manaus’ seasons are not just a climatic phenomenon but an integral part of the city’s cultural and daily life. Nestled within the heart of the Amazon Rainforest, the city experiences two distinct seasons—the Dry and the Wet. These seasons, marked by unique environmental changes, have a profound impact on the lives of its residents and play a crucial role in shaping the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
Impact on Daily Life: Dry Season: As the Dry Season unfolds, Manaus experiences a shift in daily life. The reduction in rainfall means fewer concerns about flooding and the ability to navigate the city with ease. This period often sees increased outdoor activities, as residents and visitors take advantage of the sunny, rain-free days. Parks and outdoor markets come to life, providing a vibrant backdrop for social gatherings. Moreover, the decreased humidity levels offer respite from the sultriness that characterizes the Wet Season, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration and festivities.
Wet Season: Conversely, the Wet Season brings its own set of changes to daily life. With frequent and heavy rainfall, residents adapt by being prepared for potential flooding, especially in low-lying areas. Boats become a common mode of transportation as the river swells, and navigating flooded streets becomes a necessity. The local cuisine also shifts to accommodate the abundance of fish available during this season. While the Wet Season may bring logistical challenges, it’s also a time when the city is enveloped in lush greenery and offers a unique opportunity to experience the Amazon’s true essence.
Cultural and Traditional Practices: Manaus’ seasons are deeply intertwined with the cultural fabric of the city. Many festivals and traditions revolve around the climatic shifts:
Festival of Boi-Bumbá: The Festival of Boi-Bumbá, celebrated during the Wet Season, is one of Manaus’ most significant cultural events. It features vibrant parades, music, dance, and dramatic performances that depict a folkloric tale of a resurrected ox. This festival showcases the region’s cultural diversity and is a testament to the city’s resilience in the face of seasonal challenges.
Indigenous Influence: The indigenous communities in and around Manaus have their own traditions tied to the seasons. They rely on the shifting landscape for hunting, fishing, and gathering resources, with each season dictating their activities. The indigenous peoples’ connection to nature remains a cornerstone of Manaus’ cultural identity.
Tourism and the Best Times to Visit: Manaus’ seasons also impact tourism, with each offering a unique experience:
Dry Season: From June to November, the Dry Season attracts visitors eager to explore the Amazon rainforest and its diverse wildlife. It’s an excellent time for activities like jungle trekking, wildlife spotting, and visiting the city’s iconic landmarks. The drier conditions make outdoor excursions more accessible.
Wet Season: For those seeking a more immersive rainforest experience, the Wet Season, from December to May, is ideal. The flooded landscape provides a distinct perspective of the Amazon, with opportunities for boat tours, birdwatching, and exploring flooded forests. It’s a time when the rainforest comes alive, offering a chance to witness its vibrant ecosystem in action.
Climate Change and Seasonal Shifts
The lush and vibrant city of Manaus, nestled deep within the Amazon Rainforest, is not immune to the global phenomenon of climate change. In recent years, there has been growing concern about how climate change might impact the city’s distinctive seasons and the delicate ecological balance of the region.
Climate Change and Potential Impact on Manaus’ Seasons: Climate change poses a significant threat to Manaus’ seasons, primarily through alterations in rainfall patterns and temperature fluctuations. Here’s how it could potentially impact the city:
Altered Rainfall Patterns: The Amazon Rainforest relies on regular and consistent rainfall to maintain its lush greenery. Climate change has the potential to disrupt this delicate balance, leading to irregular rainfall patterns. Extended droughts during the Wet Season or prolonged rains during the Dry Season could destabilize the ecosystem, affecting both flora and fauna.
Increased Temperatures: Rising global temperatures could lead to increased evaporation rates, potentially exacerbating the dry conditions during the Dry Season. Higher temperatures can also stress the rainforest’s vegetation and wildlife, making it harder for certain species to adapt.
Ongoing Research and Predictions: Scientists and researchers have been actively studying the potential impacts of climate change on Manaus’ seasons. Here are some ongoing areas of research and predictions:
Extreme Weather Events: Climate models suggest that the Amazon region could experience more frequent and severe weather events, including droughts and heavy rainfall. These extremes can disrupt seasonal patterns and have cascading effects on the ecosystem.
Biodiversity Loss: The Amazon Rainforest is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, but climate change could threaten many species. Research indicates that certain tree species might struggle to adapt to changing conditions, potentially leading to shifts in the composition of the rainforest.
Carbon Sink Functionality: The Amazon Rainforest is often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth” because of its role in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Climate change could compromise this vital function, releasing stored carbon and contributing to further warming.
Some questions and answers
- How does the climate in Manaus differ from other Brazilian cities?
The climate in Manaus differs significantly from many other Brazilian cities due to its unique Amazonian location. Unlike coastal cities such as Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, Manaus experiences a tropical rainforest climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.
In Manaus:
- Wet Season: Lasting from December to May, it brings heavy rainfall and river flooding.
- Dry Season: From June to November, it is characterized by less rainfall and lower humidity.
This contrast stands in contrast to the more consistent tropical and subtropical climates found in other parts of Brazil. Manaus’ proximity to the Equator accentuates these seasonal variations, contributing to its hot and humid climate. Overall, Manaus’ climate showcases the remarkable diversity of Brazil’s weather patterns, offering a unique experience for both residents and visitors.
- Can you explain the weather patterns in Manaus?
Certainly, Manaus experiences distinct weather patterns characterized by two primary seasons: the Wet Season and the Dry Season.
Wet Season (December to May): During this period, Manaus encounters heavy rainfall and elevated humidity levels. The Amazon River and its tributaries overflow, leading to widespread flooding, a phenomenon known as “várzea.” Rainfall is frequent and intense, often resulting in daily downpours. The lush rainforest thrives during this season, with vibrant plant growth and numerous water-based activities.
Dry Season (June to November): In contrast, the Dry Season brings drier and less humid conditions. Rainfall decreases significantly, and the river waters recede, revealing more accessible forest floors. The weather becomes sunnier, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration and activities.
These seasonal shifts are a consequence of Manaus’ location deep within the Amazon Rainforest and its proximity to the Equator, showcasing the city’s remarkable climatic diversity.
- When is the best time to visit Manaus?
The best time to visit Manaus largely depends on your preferences and what you aim to experience.
Dry Season (June to November): If you prefer drier weather and want to explore the Amazon rainforest with ease, this is the ideal time to visit. The lower rainfall levels make outdoor activities more accessible, from jungle trekking to wildlife spotting. It’s also a great time to explore the city’s cultural attractions without the worry of heavy rain.
Wet Season (December to May): For a unique experience of the Amazon, the Wet Season is captivating. The lush rainforest is at its peak, and river excursions offer a different perspective. You can witness the annual flooding, explore flooded forests, and observe the vibrant ecosystem. However, be prepared for heavy rains and potential logistical challenges in low-lying areas.
Ultimately, the choice between the two seasons depends on your interests and what kind of adventure you seek in the heart of the Amazon.
- What causes the distinct wet and dry seasons in Manaus?
The distinct wet and dry seasons in Manaus are primarily caused by its geographical location within the Amazon Rainforest and its proximity to the Equator. Key factors contributing to these seasonal variations include:
Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ): Manaus lies near the ITCZ, an area where trade winds from both hemispheres converge. During the wet season, these converging winds bring moist air masses, leading to heavy rainfall.
Amazon River: The Amazon River plays a crucial role in Manaus’ climate. During the wet season, the river and its tributaries swell, causing flooding. This excess water contributes to the high humidity and frequent rains.
Equatorial Climate: Manaus’ position near the Equator results in consistent day length throughout the year. However, it experiences seasonal shifts in temperature and precipitation due to the tilt of the Earth’s axis.
These factors interact to create the distinct wet and dry seasons, shaping Manaus’ unique climate and the environmental conditions that define each part of the year.
- How does Manaus’ climate compare to other equatorial regions?
Manaus’ climate, as an equatorial region, shares similarities with other areas near the Equator but also exhibits distinct characteristics. Here’s a comparison:
Similarities:
Consistent Day Length: Like other equatorial regions, Manaus experiences relatively consistent day length throughout the year due to its proximity to the Equator.
High Temperatures: Equatorial climates are known for their warmth, and Manaus is no exception, with high temperatures year-round.
Distinct Characteristics:
Two Distinct Seasons: Unlike some equatorial regions with a more constant climate, Manaus has two distinct seasons – the Wet Season and the Dry Season – due to its location within the Amazon Rainforest.
Heavy Rainfall: Manaus receives exceptionally heavy rainfall during the Wet Season, contributing to its lush rainforest environment. This pattern sets it apart from other equatorial regions that may experience more consistent rainfall throughout the year.
Flooding: The annual flooding of the Amazon River and its tributaries during the Wet Season is a unique feature of Manaus’ climate, impacting both the environment and daily life.
In summary, while Manaus shares some equatorial characteristics, its two distinct seasons and the influence of the Amazon Rainforest make its climate notably different from other equatorial regions.
Conclusion: Exploring the Seasons of Manaus: A Natural Phenomenon
As a result, Manaus, the Amazon’s jewel, provides a climate experience unlike any other. Despite the fact that the traditional four seasons dominate the imaginations of many, this Brazilian city has two distinct seasons: the Dry Season and the Wet Season.
The seasons, which have their own distinct characteristics, shape the natural world and influence the daily lives and cultural practices of Manaus residents. Manaus not only depicts the beauty of nature, but it also demonstrates the dramatic changes that occur during rainfall as well as the dramatic transformation that occurs in the rainforest.
We’ve already discussed how understanding Manaus’ seasons is more than just about its seasons; it’s also about appreciating how this region of the world is governed by such intricate forces. As a result, it emphasizes the importance of preserving and protecting this delicate ecosystem in the face of climate change and other global challenges.
So, whether you’re a curious traveler looking for a unique adventure or simply curious about the wonders of the world, Manaus’ seasons offer something for everyone. You can immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of this remarkable city by embracing the unique and stepping into its breathtaking beauty, where nature flows to its own rhythm.
