Greetings from Colorado. There was a time not too long ago that I would have been afraid to travel alone…but with anxiety we never really are alone. This is my second time out here in Colorado as a solo hiker. I take these trips to push myself and reaffirm the fact that the anxiety that once held me back is no longer in charge.

While I have been hiking I have been thinking a lot about the old me and how the old me would have said hell no to coming to the mountains alone. I would have felt much more comfortable nice and cozy in my own home, but nice and cozy is not how we heal as warriors. So far I can feel that this trip has changed me in a positive way. Feeling connected to nature has been truly beneficial in helping me to further understand why I have been so anxious in the past. Gazing out across the wide open land from on top of a mountain peak sends a strong message that no matter how difficult or long the journey is, we can keep moving forward on the trail.

Independence day celebrates our freedom as a nation, but let today be your declaration that Anxiety will no longer govern your path in life. I have felt true freedom on this trip while walking with no one around and I can say that nature has a way to put trauma into perspective. I am getting better at accepting what cannot be changed and looking at the horizon for inspiration and drive.

If you have been struggling to heal from chronic anxiety, I can’t recommend hiking or walking enough. Every trail has a built in goal and a great feeling once you complete your tour of nature. I know the cliché is that “If I can do it than anyone can”, but I honestly believe that. Having been buried so deep under the mountain of anxiety in my life it is a great feeling to be on the other side and standing on top of fears that once locked me away from who I really am.

If you are reading this I am proud of you for taking a step towards healing. If you are helping someone along in their journey please share this with your student, friend or family member. Take a deep breath and enjoy the moment warrior….nature will guide you and free you from yourself.