We all have our trauma and lessons we’ve endured as we grow. Everyone’s experiences are different, and what helps them heal is also unique. I believe that if my experiences can help someone process and work through their own, that’s the reason I was put on this earth. I feel this is where I’m supposed to share my energy and experiences. With that being said, I want to share a few pieces of art, workouts, and hobbies that have truly made a difference to my soul.

Pieces of Art That Have Helped Heal My Soul:

1. Poetry Books:
   • Home Body & Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur
   • Inward by Yung Pueblo
   • 2AM Thoughts by Makenzie Campbell
   • My Poem Book by Makenzie Potter
2. Novels:
   • Untamed by Glennon Doyle
   • The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday
   • Codependent No More by Melody Beattie
   • The Mindful Path to Self-Compassion by Christopher Germer

Each of these pieces of art has helped me heal my traumas and past experiences. The poetry of Rupi Kaur and Yung Pueblo brought comfort during moments of introspection. The profound insights from Glennon Doyle and Ryan Holiday inspired me to face challenges with resilience. Melody Beattie’s exploration of codependency gave me tools to redefine my relationships, while Christopher Germer’s guide to self-compassion taught me to treat myself with kindness.

Workouts That Have Strengthened My Body and Mind:

@MTNTOUGH_Fitness workouts have been a game-changer for me. They are so doable that I actually look forward to doing them. This became especially evident during our @TotalArcheryChallenge at Sunlight Mountain this year. Here are a few exercises that stood out during the climb:

• Step-ups with weights: These prepared me for climbing over logs and rocks while gaining elevation.
• Farmer carries: These helped me hike while carrying my bow.
• Lunges: These prepared me for various obstacles during climbs.
• Rowing and SkiErgs: These strengthened my muscles for pulling my bow.

Archery: A Mental and Physical Respite

Archery has had a profound impact on my mental health. There are times when my mind feels like it’s on fast forward, constantly thinking about all the things. When I’m shooting archery, my only focus is my shot process. Here’s my routine:

1. Walk up to shoot.
2. Ensure my feet are the correct width apart.
3. Stand up strong, engage my core.
4. Push and pull the bow to draw back.
5. Make sure my shoulder is down and strong.
6. Push with my bow hand in the stop position, not squeezing the bow with my fingers.
7. Match up the anchor on my chin.
8. Breathe, look through the peep, and get the pin where I want to hit.
9. Wrap my thumb around the release barrel.
10. Breathe again, and when the pin is where I want to hit, pull through.

After each shot, I analyze and adjust to make the next one better. This focus is why archery has been so beneficial for my mental health and self-confidence. Over the years, shooting archery has made me not just mentally stronger but also physically stronger, which in turn aids my mental health.

Nature: My Sanctuary

Being in nature has been a huge game changer. Surrounded by crisp air, engulfed by trees and the pine smell of the mountains, and hearing only the chirping of birds, the rustling of chipmunks and squirrels in the leaves, and, if I’m lucky, the bugle of an elk—all these experiences have inspired me. This inspiration led me to create my In Need of Nature apparel, a reminder of those calming senses.

In sharing these pieces of art, workouts, and my connection with nature, I hope to help others find their own path to healing and strength. If my journey can support even one person, I believe I am fulfilling my purpose.