As previously posted, I have chosen to research the benefits of exploring nature for my free inquiry topic. I have always had a passion for getting outside, exploring nature and adventuring, which why I chose this topic in particular. I strongly believe that exploring the outdoors is a blessing and that its effects on a human’s mental and physical health can be positively impacted when involved with what nature has to offer. Prior to living in Victoria, I lived in the small town of Ladner, B.C. on the mainland. While living in Ladner, the mountains in North Vancouver were only an hour drive away and are filled with a plethora of hikes, trails and good views. At least once a week I would head up to a new hike or re-visit one of my favourite spots to indulge in nature and get exercise. Since I only had time to hike and explore on the weekends, I would go to the gym near my house during the week. Also, in the winters, some trails would be closed and certain hikes would be rather dangerous to explore, not to mention the drive to those mountains would be unsafe. This is when I realized the impact that the outdoors had on me. By being forced to only attend the gym for a mode of exercise started to feel repetitive and I would crave the dirt under my boots and the smell of fresh air. I realized that I enjoyed being outside to get my exercise much more than inside a humid gym among many other people. Personally, I get rather restless when I am confined to a certain space to get my exercise in instead of releasing my energy while doing an activity (like hiking). I believe that participating in hikes and walking trails allows a more diverse method of exercise outside the realm of only a gym. While hiking, you are able to constantly breathe in fresh air, have more of a visually appealing surrounding, and enjoy a calm and relatively quiet environment while anxiously awaiting to reach the top. In relation to my inquiry, these are all benefits on why I believe that the outdoors boosts an individuals mental and physical health. For physical health, individuals are able to exercise while walking on uneven terrain and steep slopes while also increasing your endurance abilities. In regard to mental health, individuals are able to inhale fresh air and clear their head while hearing the sounds of nature and resetting their mindset. I believe that nature provides a reset to any mood or feeling one may have and improve self-regulation. In short, I believe that nature is a significant topic to be researched and I will continue to pursue my research regarding its benefits.

Below are a few of my favourite photographs from exploring. Nature provides beautiful sunsets, sunrises, diverse weather patterns and different of activities to explore. I enjoy sunrises because they remind me that everyday is a new day and that no matter what happens, the sun will always rise to begin a new day. Similarly, sunsets remind me that even after a difficult day, the sun will always disappear while leaving behind a beautiful and relaxing image.

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Galiano Island, British Columbia.                                     Ogden Point Breakwater, Victoria, British Columbia.