Over the years, I’ve spent considerable time reflecting on how nature has been a guiding force in my journey to overcome fear and anxiety, while cultivating a sense of confidence in myself. Since childhood, the outdoors has served as a source of solace and growth—a space where I’ve discovered not only my own strength, but also a profound connection to the earth, myself, and those around me. This journey isn’t just about personal growth; it’s about recognizing the transformative potential that nature holds for all of us. Through my experiences, I’m inspired to share what I’ve learned in the hope of inviting others to embark on their own journey of self-discovery and empowerment
My relationship with the outdoors began during childhood camping trips in the Appalachian Mountains with my family. I’m forever grateful for how these experiences instilled in me a deep appreciation for the natural world and planted the seeds for a lifelong connection to nature. Later, it was running that truly captured my heart (and my competitive spirit) from an early age. Whether sprinting into the forest behind my house, competing against other kids on the playground, or in collegiate races, the sense of freedom, strength, and accomplishment was truly addictive. As I got older, I discovered rock climbing—a new passion that opened doors to fresh challenges and a lovely community. While the fear and anxiety before a race or a daunting climb initially felt insurmountable, with time I was able to persevere through positive self-talk, focusing on my breath, and building confidence in myself. Each step on a rugged trail or ascent up a rock face became a lesson in resilience, shaping my ability to confront fear and anxiety head-on.
I vividly recall a quote from Muhammad Ali that a college teammate shared with me before a big track meet: “To be a great champion, you must believe you are the best. If you’re not, pretend you are.” This mantra has resonated with me ever since, serving as a guiding principle in various facets of my life. While embodying this mindset is easier said than done, I’ve found that the experiences build on each other over the years, fostering a greater self-belief and confidence amidst struggles with anxiety and self-doubt. Outdoor adventure sometimes demands unwavering faith in my abilities and judgement, and through this I’ve been propelled to lean into my instincts and draw upon my inner strength. With each milestone achieved in climbing and running, my confidence gradually increases, even as I grapple with the challenge of translating this newfound assurance into other realms of my life.
However, these lessons haven’t always seamlessly translated into ‘real-world’ settings. Imposter syndrome and anxiety became constant companions as I navigated career shifts—from pursuing outdoor passions to delving into mental health and humanitarian work. Each pivot brought its own set of challenges and moments of self-doubt. Yet, by remembering what I learned in my physical pursuits, I have often been able to call upon that resilience and determination in order to embrace uncertainty, knowing that each experience is shaping my journey further. Through lots of introspection, therapy, and building the evidence base for my own resilience, I am finding strength and purpose in embracing life’s twists and turns.
Beyond achievement, nature has become a sanctuary for self-care and well-being. The tranquility of the outdoors, the thrill of climbing, and the euphoria of feeling my feet connect to the earth on a trail all contributes to my overall happiness and fulfillment. Amid life’s chaos, these experiences offer rejuvenation and connection to my most authentic self.
Inspired by my own path of healing through nature, I now aim to integrate nature-based approaches into my therapeutic work. Witnessing nature’s healing power firsthand in wilderness therapy, I strive to offer clients opportunities to connect with nature. Research also backs this up, and the New York Times recently featured an article about the ways in which mental health practitioners are integrating the outdoors into their practice – whether through wilderness retreats or simple walks in the forest. However, accessibility remains key, and I advocate for more research into inclusive nature-based practices that cater to diverse backgrounds and groups.
Reflecting on my journey, I’m deeply moved by the invaluable lessons nature has taught me. Through outdoor adventures, I’ve cultivated courage, trust, and resilience, invaluable qualities that have guided me through life’s trials. As I forge ahead, I’m inspired to share these insights with others, empowering them to discover their own strength and connection through the outdoors. Yet, I’m also acutely aware of the barriers many face in accessing nature’s healing embrace. How can we work together to make outdoor experiences more accessible to all, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to benefit from the transformative power of nature?
lindsaybingaman 
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