Environment Essay

The time I felt most connected to the environment was when I went backpacking through Utah for two weeks. I did this April of 2023. I went with a group from my school and two of our teachers. I've always struggled with really bad anxiety throughout my life. I've never gone on a trip like this before ever. I was in a new part of the country without any of my family and had to rely on myself. 

I spent 2 weeks just out in nature disconnected from my normal life. I didn't have to worry about school work or my job I just had to worry about what I was eating and sleeping that night. We slept in tents every night and sometimes even just under the stars. I felt so vulnerable but also very protected at the same time. When I missed my family I just looked up and saw the same stars I would see from my backyard. I was comforted by this and it helped ease my worries. 

I've always been nervous doing things on my own. I would feel awkward going on by myself or even doing things at school alone. During my time backpacking I got more and more used to going out on my own and exploring the different places we stayed. I realised that nature could provide so much and be so complex when I wasn't worried about other people. I felt so connected to the rivers and waterfalls and how intricate the mountain sides were. 

Going on this trip helped me be more comfortable as a human and realise how special life and the environment can be.