Sam Ziemba: Free Response 3

    The talk about ecotherapy reminded me of a personal experience I had during my sophomore year of high school. Freshman and sophomore years I struggled with my mental health. I had been put on medication and went through extensive therapy. My therapist suggested time outdoors, which I thought was silly, but was willing to try. I went on a canoe trip with the James River Association. This trip consisted of canoeing all day, with breaks to eat and sleep. We canoed about 40 miles total. Although this trip was only a week, and not as beneficial as months on the Appalachian Trail, I was able to feel nature's healing effects. Stepping away from technology and the comforts of my day-to-day life allowed me to better appreciate the beauty of nature. Although physically challenging, this experience gave me a feeling of peace that I had never before experienced. The disconnection from the outside world was tricky at first, but quickly during the trip, I started to dread the idea of going back to my normal life, as nature provided such comfort. Even after the trip, I was able to look at the world in a different way and find joy in things I hadn't before. 

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