As infuriating as golf can seem at times, most of us have an affinity for this game because of its ability to get us to relax. Now more than ever, our appreciation for the calming aspects of golf have grown stronger.

By Stephen Hennessey

Having the first tee time of the day and sweeping the dew.

Finding the fairway off the first tee.

A twilight round without having to wait on the group ahead.

Any round without having to wait on the group ahead.

Having a clear afternoon to go to the range.

An empty short-game practice area.

Freshly cut greens.

The smell of cabretta leather from a freshly unwrapped golf glove.

Adam Scott’s swing on loop.

Any old Ben Hogan instructional video.

When you hear the “Augusta” theme song by Dave Loggins come on.

The smooth, dulcet tones of Jim Nantz.

An old Jim McKay-Dave Marr-Bob Rosburg exchange on ABC classic U.S. Open broadcasts.

Lingering on the tee of a beautiful golf hole to fully soak in the moment.

Beautiful aerial golf-course shots.

Admiring your favourite golf-course photos.

Catching just the right amount of sand on a bunker shot.

Hitting a crisp chip shot that hops and spins back on a dime.

A great on-course conversation.

The post-round drink or cigar.

Biting into your favourite on-course snack (maybe a fresh hot dog with chopped onions, anyone?)

A great new golf book.

The smile on your child’s face after that first solid hit.