Nature's Classroom: Lessons Learned on the Hiking Path
Hey, friends! Time to lace up those hiking boots, grab your favorite travel mug, and join me on the trails of self-discovery. Today I'm opening up about how hiking has become more than a simple walk in nature—it's a profound teacher in the classroom of life.
Finding Solace on the Trail: A Journey of Release
Amid the heart-wrenching realities surrounding the murders of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, and countless others, being black in America took on a new weight. The weight of racism became a constant companion, and the hiking trail became my sanctuary.
Each step on the path allowed me to release the anxiety, trauma and triggers that clung to my soul. The quiet rustle of leaves and the rhythm of my breath became a counterbalance to the chaos of the world. It was here, surrounded by towering trees and expansive skies, that I began to process the pain endured by black Americans. In fact, it was during these hikes that the words and thoughts for the blog post, *A Message From Your Black Trophy Girlfriend and Your Black Token Friend*, began to take shape.
Hiking as a Teacher: Life Lessons from the Trail
Nature, in its vastness and beauty, emerged as a patient teacher. Here are three lessons that the hiking path unveiled to me:
1. Resilience in Every Ascent:
Just like the uphill climb, life is full of challenges. Each steep ascent becomes an opportunity to prove resilience. With every summit reached, I learned that strength lies not just in the destination but in the journey.
2. Gratitude Found in the Simplicity:
The trail taught me to appreciate the simplicity of life—the sound of birdsong, the scent of pine, the warmth of sunlight filtering through leaves. During these simple wonders, gratitude flourished.
3. Stillness in Motion:
Strangely, the constant motion of hiking led me to moments of profound stillness. In the rhythmic pulse of nature, I found a calming meditation. The trail taught me that even in movement, we can discover stillness within.
Exercise, Nature, and Mental Well-being: A Vital Connection
Here's something worth noting, regular exercise, especially in natural settings, has significant positive effects on mental well-being. The combination of physical activity and nature immersion has been proven to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, providing a natural boost to overall mental health.
Continuing the Journey: Hiking for Enjoyment and Healing
But the story doesn't end here. I continue to hike, not just for enjoyment, but as a crucial part of my ongoing healing journey. Hiking has expanded my capacity to face the various experiences of trauma I've encountered. It's become a profound practice—a rhythmic dance between the trails and my soul, embracing the opportunity to continue healing in this human experience.
So, as I invite you to tread the trails, may each step be a lesson, a release, and a celebration of your strength. Don't forget to grab a travel mug from theStore for a sip of refreshment along the way. Stay hydrated, soak in the wisdom of nature, and, most importantly, embrace the lessons the hiking path has to offer.
Let the trails be your classroom, and may each step be a lesson in self-discovery. With love and the spirit of exploration,
—Abigail 🌲🤎
Listen to the InsidHer Podcast for deeper conversations on the healing journey, self-love, and mental health.
