When a leaf falls from a tree, it is committing an act of defiance. It no longer holds fast to its limb but lets go and trusts that what will be will be. 

After what feels like weeks of battling bronchitis and lingering symptoms, I finally made it out for a hike yesterday. We encountered just a handful of other humans on the trail and I was grateful for the peaceful experience. 

Clean air, bird song, and dirt beneath my feet were exactly what I needed. Wind through the trees helped many leaves embrace their independence and float gently toward the ground. They will soon go back to the earth and enrich the soil to help other plants and trees grow. 

Time in nature makes everything better. It can heal the body, mind and spirit. It can lower your blood pressure. It can give you hope that tomorrow will be better. 

It can make you stronger and happier. 

Wherever you are in this world, I hope you will find your way outdoors for a while every day. Go for a hike. Step outside your front door. Find a walking partner to make it more fun. Do what you must. Just go outside.