To Blog or Not to Blog

I had been contemplating starting a blog for some time, but I never quite knew what it should look like or what I should say. However, if there was one thing that the pandemic (and a new graduate program) provided me, it was ample time to think deeply about what was important to me and what keeps me going when times get difficult. It really boiled down to three things:

1. Outdoor adventure

2. Environmentalism

3. Health

Outdoor adventure

I love the wilderness and spending time in the outdoors when I can. I love pushing myself to the limit when it comes to hiking and cycling, and I'm always planning the next adventure, whether it's close to home or afar. I've got enough trip ideas jotted down that would be adequate for at least two normal human lifetimes because the number of hiking trails, summits, bike routes, etc., are seemingly endless. There are many reasons why I love outdoor adventures, but one reason is sharing the excitement with others and meeting so many cool people along the way.

Environmentalism

When nature provides you with so much enjoyment and adventure, you can't help but care deeply for it. So, it only makes sense that I would want to protect the planet that I've grown to love more and more everyday. In short, I am acutely aware of the effects of climate change on the environment, the ecosystem, and our natural resources. I know the impact humans are having on the Earth, and I want to aid the efforts that are trying to protect our planet from irreversible damage. I am doing my best to incorporate environmentally friendly practices at home, and my goal is to create a positive change in my community and workplace as well.

Health

Getting outside has been fundamental for my physical and mental health. When stress from work, school, or general life occurs, I can nearly always count on an outdoor trip for a mental and emotional recharge. Furthermore, the activities that I am doing allow me some physical fitness when my day-to-day is either at a desk or a lab bench. The chance to bond with friends or family in an outdoor setting, away from screens, is a major added bonus.

But, why blog?

Blogs have been extremely helpful to me over the years, whether it be for trip planning, double checking my gear list, learning tips for being more environmentally friendly, or trying out new practices (i.e. veganism, meditation, yoga, etc.). I wanted to be a part of the community so that I can share what I know and what I am learning along the way. I hope that this blog will encourage living a sustainable, healthy, and environmentally friendly lifestyle while showing respect and love for the outdoors.

So get ready to make (or eliminate) some footprints! Happy Trails!