Wander Far, Come Home to Yourself

This July, step out of routine and into nature. Discover how travel invites creativity, healing, and presence—with prompts to guide your own inner journey.

Why We Travel (and What It Gives Back)

We hear that travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer. And for me, it’s never been about the souvenirs or passport stamps—it’s about the soul stamps, those indelible imprints left by the road and the people you meet when you say yes to the unknown.

This July, Theresa and I are leaning into the spirit of adventure and creativity. We’ve talked a lot about this on the podcast, especially during our recent experiences—from the Blue Ridge Mountains to Paris, Rome, and the Dolomite mountains in northern Italy—and let me tell you, leaving your comfort zone (and cell signal) is where the magic happens.

When I’m in nature—especially hiking or off the grid—I meet parts of myself I never knew…or forgot existed. It’s like stripping away the static of daily life. The inbox clutter, the courtroom battles, the ringing phone...all fade. What’s left is presence…stillness…imagination.

The Uncomfortable Side of Adventure (and Why It’s Worth It)

Adventure isn't always easy, though. Sometimes it looks like getting lost, running out of snacks, or crying at 2 a.m. because your headlamp burned out, your spare is dead, and your GPS stopped working. But those moments humble you, pulling creativity and strength of character out of your chest like a long-lost friend. 

Nature as a Portal for Healing

And healing? That sneaks in between the sunrise hikes, aching hips, and campfire silences. There’s something sacred about breathing in air that smells like pine and possibility. I’ve done more inner work on a trail than in a dozen therapy sessions (and you know I believe in therapy).

Not All Wanderers Are in the Woods

So if you’re stuck this summer—emotionally, creatively, relationally—move. Shift your view. Take a train, a trail, or a slow walk around a place you don’t know well yet.

 If wilderness is not your bag, plan a day trip to a town in your state you have never visited. Plan on wandering around the downtown, watching the tourists and the townies, checking out the farmer’s market, chatting with the old man selling peaches from a roadside tent, eavesdropping on the locals while having pie and coffee in the afternoon in the local café. 

And speaking of chatting up that old man…don’t miss the opportunity to hear a classic tale. Be curious…ask a question that invites a flood of memories, and bask in the glory of the tale that follows. 

Mindful Moments: How to Stay Present

Whether it is solitude on the trail, or just getting yourself into a new and completely unfamiliar setting, take a moment occasionally to ground yourself in the present moment…feel the breeze on your skin, notice the way the light plays on the hair of the children sitting by the window in the café, listen to the hum of nature and open your soul to the wonder of the here and now.  Your nervous system and inner knowing will thank you.

Journal Prompts for Your Own Inner Journey:

1. Where am I being called to explore—externally or internally—that I’ve been resisting?
2. What stories about myself begin to loosen when I leave familiar spaces?
3. If I let my creativity lead the way for one day, what would I do first?
4. What has nature taught me about who I am and what I need to heal?
5. When I feel nervous, uncomfortable, or awkward, where do I feel it in my body, and why? Can I allow that feeling, honor it, and continue exploring?

Go wander. Let your feet move so your spirit can rest. You might just find the version of you who remembers how to play, create, and be brave.

See you out there.

—Walker

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