The power of nature therapy
Updated: Sep 24
My love for the outdoors means much more than just stepping out for a walk. It started at a young age. I have always felt this need to "get lost" and let the unknown guide me. It was always a powerful way to reconnect with myself and ground my thoughts.
Hiking is my mental therapy. Growing up, I was fortunate enough to live around mountains. I was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley in Southern California. I also spent most of my childhood summers in Northern Italy with my family. In the last six years, I have hiked some of the most beautiful national parks in the country - including Glacier and Yellowstone.
I visited Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado in February of last year with my sister. Many of the trails were closed due to the heavy snowpack, but we could still explore. It was an unforgettable experience. I still remember the crisp sound of the snow as you walked over it - the silence - and the fresh mountain breeze. It reminded me so much of my winter hikes in Montana. I had the chance to camp in Big Bend National Park here in Texas. Another extraordinary place worth visiting.
Hiking has taught me to embrace stillness. The daily grind can sometimes be overwhelming when the to-do list is long. Moments in nature have allowed me to pause, disconnect, and let go simply. It's needed. You never know what you will discover on a trail, which is what I find most powerful. This can be applied to life as well. Sometimes, we may try so hard to control the outcome - but learning to embrace the journey is where the beauty is. Trusting the unknown allows you to escape fear and open your heart to new experiences. Hiking, to me, means just that.
I'm not here to tell you that you should now make hiking part of your routine. I'm just sharing my personal experience, hoping it will empower you to discover your own outlet. Whatever it is that brings you joy, do that. Set your soul free.
