Recovery and Nature

The science and soul of using nature as medicine. Stories and insights on how the outdoors supports long-term recovery.

A person sits by a campfire in the forests of Utah, creating a cozy nighttime atmosphere.
Recovery and Nature

What Nobody Tells You About Camping Sober for the First Time

Nobody warned me about the grief. That first night without a drink by the campfire, I was not craving alcohol. I was mourning a version of myself that no longer existed. Here is what five years of sober camping has taught me about getting through that disorientation and building something real on the other side.

Eli Strand · May 19, 2026

Why Everyone Should Read The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
Recovery and Nature

Why Everyone Should Read The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

Reading this book was deeply personal. Every chapter made me think more deeply about Ruger’s internal world. What would he say if he could speak? Would he joke about my weird human behaviors the way Enzo does? Would he notice emotional subtleties I might miss? This story strengthened my belief that dogs truly understand us better than we realize. It deepened my bond with Ruger, reinforcing my gratitude for his intuitive companionship and unconditional love.

April 1, 2025

Why Everyone Should Read The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
Recovery and Nature

Why Everyone Should Read The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

Reading this book was deeply personal. Every chapter made me think more deeply about Ruger’s internal world. What would he say if he could speak? Would he joke about my weird human behaviors the way Enzo does? Would he notice emotional subtleties I might miss? This story strengthened my belief that dogs truly understand us better than we realize. It deepened my bond with Ruger, reinforcing my gratitude for his intuitive companionship and unconditional love.

Maya Torres · April 1, 2025

Everything Is F*cked: A Book About Hope – A Deep Dive into Manson's Mind by Nick P.
Recovery and Nature

Everything Is F*cked: A Book About Hope – A Deep Dive into Manson's Mind by Nick P.

Mark Manson, the maestro of modern cynicism, returns with his provocatively titled Everything Is Fcked: A Book About Hope, and I dove into it with both high expectations and a healthy dose of skepticism. I had loved his previous work, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck, and I was curious to see how he’d dissect the elusive concept of hope this time around. 

Nick Pearson · March 12, 2025

Embracing Sobriety: Your Ticket to Safe and Joyful Events
Recovery and Nature

Embracing Sobriety: Your Ticket to Safe and Joyful Events

In a world that often revolves around alcohol and drugs, embracing sobriety might seem like an uphill battle, especially when attending events where these substances are prevalent. However, the journey to recovery is not about restricting yourself from enjoying life; instead, it’s about finding your own path to happiness, one that is free from the influence of intoxicating substances. Having a safety and exit plan in place empowers you to navigate these situations with confidence, allowing you to revel in the joy of the moment while prioritizing your well-being.

October 4, 2023

Embracing Sobriety: Your Ticket to Safe and Joyful Events
Recovery and Nature

Embracing Sobriety: Your Ticket to Safe and Joyful Events

In a world that often revolves around alcohol and drugs, embracing sobriety might seem like an uphill battle, especially when attending events where these substances are prevalent. However, the journey to recovery is not about restricting yourself from enjoying life; instead, it’s about finding your own path to happiness, one that is free from the influence of intoxicating substances. Having a safety and exit plan in place empowers you to navigate these situations with confidence, allowing you to revel in the joy of the moment while prioritizing your well-being.

Jordan Reed · September 30, 2023