I want to take a moment to shed some light on the amazing benefits of spending time outdoors, especially during Mental Health Awareness Month. People often assume that I’m out and about adventuring all the time since I post pretty often on hiking and travels, but in reality I have a job and am constantly going non stop, at times to my own detriment.
I live a go-go-go, hurried mom syndrome, “can’t stop won’t stop” kind of life.
Truth is, it’s not always easy and does take a toll on my own mental health.
But when I do get an opportunity to get outside, whether it’s at the crack of dawn, in between kids schedules, or a weekend adventure, I soak up every minute of the most incredible joy, peace and healing. The outdoors takes me away from any anxiety of what others think, gets me away from social media and daily stressors. It is my time to turn it all off and tune in to what is important. It truly is the best thing I can do for myself and my well being. In nature, I am FREE. Getting to experience these beautiful small moments makes me a better ME.
When I was a young teen, my grandmother took her own life as a result of mental illness. For years I struggled to understand the WHY of it all. Did she have a safe place or an outlet of any sort? Did she know there was so much out there for her to see and do and experience? My questions were endless.
My hiking journey began a few years ago while going through a grief process and a huge rough patch in my life. It was in nature that I could experience complete solace and find healing in many ways. Not only did it transform me mentally, it transformed me physically, putting me in the best shape of my life. Nature and hiking inspired me to fulfill a passion project called Wanderin2wellness. I started this project just a few months ago and it has been the most amazing experience.
I live for the moments when the sun hits my face, in the outdoors. A million miracles begin at sunrise and there is so much to look forward to. I want everybody to experience these beautiful moments that bring us to our center and make us feel the happiest we have ever been. Mind, Body and Spirit.
You are an inspiration to so many Kimberly! Keep up your heart for people and your desire to help build them up to be and feel their best! You have encouraged and challenged me throughout my lifetime. You have surely helped me to stay well in the most challenging times !! You have an intense hunger to help EVERYONE feel better. You eagerly soak up information and try everything to be the best and to know the most! You are a gift to this world and anyone lucky enough to have you in their life. To call you a friend or to have you as a coach. When your heart is so in it, you can’t go wrong! Now let’s hit a trail!
Thank you so much. You have always been my biggest supporter in life. We have been through so much and am grateful you have been there every step of the way. Your heart is pure gold and glad we have helped each other through it all. Takes one to know one right!? Happy trails my dear friend.