Fall 2024 is a season marked by intensifying storms, both literal and metaphorical. Hurricanes have battered communities, leaving destruction in their wake, while the political climate heats up with looming elections that appear to deepen divisions in our country.

It’s no surprise that many people are experiencing increased pressure, stress and anxiety, feeling overwhelmed by the combination of natural disasters and political unrest.

In the midst of chaos, it is vital that we find effective ways to manage stress and anxiety. An effective outlet lies in pursuing meaningful outdoor activities and other strategic stress-reduction practices.

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There is something deeply healing about being in nature. Research consistently shows that time spent outdoors can lower stress levels, reduce anxiety, and promote a sense of well-being. The rhythm of walking along a path, the sight of trees gently bending in the breeze, and the feel of the sun on our skin remind us that, despite the storms of life, there is a world of beauty and peace beyond the turbulence. .

Engaging in the outdoors can shift our mental state from a place of worry to a place of wonder. When the world around us seems chaotic, our natural tendency is to turn inward, becoming obsessed with fears, anxieties, and “what ifs.” This can quickly lead to a cycle of stress, where each new piece of negative information reinforces a feeling of helplessness. The 24-hour news cycle, social media, and constant flow of information make it almost impossible to avoid this.

Time spent outdoors, especially when related to serving others, offers an alternative: it encourages a mindset of wonder-filled curiosity rather than worry-filled conclusions. Instead of defaulting to worry, we can embrace a sense of wonder by asking questions like, “What can I learn from this moment?” or “How can I see God’s work even in difficult times?”

Even after the devastation it can cause, nature always invites us to question ourselves. When we look at the intricate patterns of leaves, the majesty of a mountain range, or the tranquility of a tranquil lake, we are reminded that there is much more to life than our immediate concerns. It’s an opportunity to marvel at creation and reconnect with a sense of purpose beyond ourselves.

When we allow ourselves to be curious, we open the door to growth and transformation. By shifting our focus from what we cannot control (the storms and elections) to what we can (our responses and actions), we begin to find a sense of peace.

Purpose is a crucial antidote to stress and anxiety. When we engage in activities that are not only enjoyable but also meaningful, we experience a kind of relief that goes deeper than momentary distraction. For young people and their adult mentors and leaders participating in organizations like Trail Life United Statesthis might mean participating in a service project like building a new trail, cleaning a park, or helping a neighbor recover after a storm. These acts of service spark a sense of accomplishment and connection to the community, reinforcing the idea that our actions can indeed make a positive difference.

We shift our attention away from personal stress and focus on serving others. In doing so, we not only reduce our own anxiety, but we also model resilience for the next generation. By showing that we can meet challenges with faith and courage, we teach young people how to respond to life’s inevitable uncertainties.

As election season and storm-related stress take their toll, here are some practical ways to foster a mindset of wonder rather than worry:

1. Get out. Make time for outdoor activities, whether it’s a walk in the park, a weekend camping trip, or a structured program like Trail Life USA. Simply stepping away from the usual environment can help you recalibrate your perspective.

2. Be determined. Look for ways to turn your time outdoors into something meaningful. Take part in a clean-up project, volunteer to help with trail maintenance, or mentor a young person in their outdoor skills.

3. Be curious. Challenge yourself to approach life’s uncertainties with questions rather than conclusions. Ask: “What can I learn?” or “How could this situation lead to growth?” »

4. Be thoughtful. Mindful reflection in nature calms us, reducing anxiety. Spend a few moments each day thinking quietly outside. Let the sights and sounds of nature remind you of the big picture and your place in it.

5. Free yourself from the media. Give yourself permission to take breaks from the news cycle. Take advantage of this time to engage in activities that bring joy and fulfillment.

In these times of storm recovery and election intensity, anxiety is a natural response, but it does not have to be the dominant response. By moving from worry to wonder, from closure to curiosity, and by finding purpose in outdoor experiences and service, we can alleviate stress and foster a mindset of hope.

Organizations like Trail Life USA show us that embracing nature and serving others can be a powerful antidote to the turbulence of modern life. Let’s go outside, take a deep breath, and let the beauty of the world around us remind us of the wonders we might otherwise overlook. In doing so, we will find not only relief from our stress, but also a renewed sense of purpose and connection with God, ourselves, and others.