I don’t know who needs to hear this, but your experiences are valid, valuable, and uniquely yours. As it pertains to the outdoors and adventure, you are surrounded by the wonder and beauty of God’s creation right now, at this very moment. If you believe your life is not extraordinary, look again.
Photo copyright Melissa Anne Outdoors
I’m saying this to myself as much as I’m saying it to you. Magic and wonder can happen on a simple walk. It’s all in your perspective.
About seven years ago, I was depressed and struggling with anxiety. Going outside and walking in nature brought me back to life. It was a slow process that began with what I called a “gratitude walk.”
When I would go on a gratitude walk, I forced myself to only express gratitude the entire time my feet were moving. I thanked God for my life and listed everything and every person I was grateful for. Then, I would focus on the nature around me, expressing gratitude for the clouds in the sky to the dirt beneath my feet. When I saw other people on my walk, I would wish them well in my mind and send them positive vibes for their journey. When I walked past insanely large houses with beautiful yards, I would comment to myself what a beautiful home it was and allow myself to feel genuine happiness for the people living inside for winning the lottery of life.
What I didn’t realize is that I was training my brain to always seek out the silver lining and to really see the beauty that surrounds me, down to the last detail. It used to be something I forced my mind to do, but now it’s second nature and I’m insufferable to be on a trail with. I notice everything and become overly enthusiastic about all of the nature surrounding me. I can’t imagine looking at life through any other lens.
I hope that by sharing this, I can help inspire your journey. You don’t need to book a trip across the country or across the world to experience breathtaking nature. Simply walk out your front door.
Wishing you well, my friend.
Carpe Diem,
Melissa Anne
Photo copyright Melissa Anne Outdoors
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