The waves lap softly at the pebble-stone shore, like a whisper, one that has been told for thousands of years. Sunlight streams across the water and the swells reflect the gold and amber hues that light up the sky. There's a breeze - refreshing, but not cold. It's quiet. You feel no obligations, no to-do list is running frantically through your mind, no worries toss and turn on repeat. Instead, you simply are.

It is far too easy to miss out on experiences like this. Entertaining ourselves is easy, and we often do it in such a way that we never even have a need to go outside. I know this personally, and must admit that through many summers this has been my default - it's simply easier not to go outside. But is it possible to obtain that same serenity, that separation from all of one's personal stresses, by staying cooped up inside? For myself at least, I'd say no.

Growing up, I have always been exposed to the wonders of the outdoors. Both of my parents share a love for hiking and so as a family we often go on trips together, exploring what the various trails have to offer. Recently, hiking has become more widely popular and the amount of people on trails has increased significantly until sometimes you feel as though you are walking down the street, instead of deep in the heart of an old-growth forest. And yet, the majesty of nature isn't diminished. On every hike there are moments that are utterly still, moments that encapsulate the power and wonder which comes from being surrounded by nature.

Through these moments I have found that wonders can be done for both your mental health and your emotional state. I had no idea these experiences would be so significant, and yet these moments alone in nature have made all the difference for me. The assurance that there are none of the usual worries, that nobody who can hurt you, and that there is nothing around to cause you stress - it melts away the anxiety and replaces it with peace. You instead obtain the privilege of being witness to the beautiful harmony of the trees and animals, the wind and waves. Even when you feel as though stress is crushing you, soaking in that simple moment in nature allows nature to ebb the stress away. The weight no longer feels unbearable. Instead, it feels as though you are being prepared for better things, like a stone being polished in the waves.

So I encourage you to take a step outdoors--even if it simply means a walk through the local park. There is something strongly therapeutic about actual sunlight on your skin and this is a therapy that everyone has access to, and needs. Even when it feels as though there is no way that going out will make you feel better, go out. You will, more times than not, come back with a more positive mindset. We all need a little boost to keep us going, and nature presents this to us all freely; why not take up the offer?