Nature can have a profound impact on someone’s attitude and well-being. When one of my very best friends lost her grandfather while we were in Montana last summer, she found that hiking was the most therapeutic way for her to deal with the grief from this loss. We would drive through the mountains to a secluded trail head and just start walking. No talking, no music, just walking. Every now and then she’d turn to me and say, “okay let’s stop here for a minute”, so we’d stop, take in the magnificent view halfway up the mountain, and then keep walking. By allowing herself to be physically pushed but also allowing herself to think about her struggle, she was able to come to terms with her grandfather’s passing in such a healthy way.
Sometimes all it takes for a person to feel better is to be put in nature where everything seems so connected and to make so much sense. When we got to the top of the mountain and looked out over the range, we both felt so small but so empowered at the same time. It was a very humbling experience, one that she and I will never forget. After every hike we took last summer, we’d hop back in the car, turn up the music and sing our hearts out, completely content with our circumstances despite our respective challenges.
While you or your friend may not have mountains nearby or may not be able to do strenuous physical activity, there are countless outdoor activities that would be fun to do this Friday on Earth Day. One idea our team loves is to plant a tree or plant in memory of a loved one or in honor of someone special. Click here to view the “Seeds of Life Tree Kit” to get started. Picnics, trips to the park, walks, boating, swimming, or simply sitting outside are also great ways to cheer up yourself and others. Click on any one of the activities above to view some of our favorite outdoor items to help you or your friend get better by appreciating our beautiful planet. It’s what friends do!
