Need a Mental Health Break?

Chill out in nature to soothe the soul.

The daily news is coming at us so fast and furious right now that it is impossible to keep up. The Trump administration and his cronies are “flooding the zone” with massive changes to our government that can shake us to our souls. Is our Democracy at risk? Are we in a Constitutional crisis? Yes, and emphatically yes!! So, what do we do? Well, call your representatives, write a letter to the editor and then by all means get outside and enjoy some nature.

Almost every study finds that going for a walk outside, getting a little exercise or just sitting and taking in the beauty of the natural outdoors does wonders for our health. In these exceptionally stressful times, taking mental health nature breaks are vitally important for the soul. As you can see, even animals stop to reflect on the beauty of the outdoors, so please friends, take a little time to pause and search for the inner peace which can still be found in the wonders of nature.

A large male whitetail deer stops to reflect upon the beautiful waters of West Lake Okoboji located in Northwest Iowa. David Thoreson Photo

Two people stop to take in the peace and beauty of a sunset reflection on the shores of West Lake Okoboji in Northwest Iowa. David Thoreson Photo

I am very fortunate to live in the Iowa Great Lakes region where we have heavily invested in the outdoor recreational economy. We are the only county of the ninety-nine in Iowa that has an economy based on a healthy outdoors with accessible public lands and waters. Taking care of our waters and lands attracts visitors from near, and far, in all seasons. Not everyone has access to these beautiful natural resources in the state. We must continue to press our state representatives to fully fund the Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation Trust Fund. We voted for this Iowa Constitutional Amendment 15 years ago and our elected representatives refuse to fund it and move it forward.

Iowans deserve better. We voted with a large majority for clean air and water and access to a healthy outdoors. It is in challenging times like these that the investment in the outdoor environment pays dividends to our mental health and soothes our souls. Please get outdoors as you can, take a breath, reflect, and then get back in the game. Our families, friends, communities and Democracy, depend on a healthy You.

An early morning sunrise in Millers Bay near the Iowa Lakeside Laboratory is always a great place to discover the natural beauty of the Iowa Great Lakes and find some inner peace in our busy lives and troubling times. David Thoreson Photo

A Canadian Goose appears to stand guard over a flock of White Pelicans on East Lake Okoboji in Northwest Iowa. Observing wildlife is one of the great ways to get some exercise, fresh air and relax in the outdoors. David Thoreson Photo

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