How To Touch Grass: Approaching Nature For The First Time
We all need closeness to nature because spending time in natural environments improves our quality of life, from the air we breathe to how long we live. But some of us are scared! Not everyone grew up pitching a tent in the backyard or driving three miles north to hike under a hidden waterfall. Those who grew up amidst urban sprawl may not have had a relationship with nature. Racial and class segregation also impact the level of safety and inclusion that we feel exploring our outdoor spaces.
So, to anyone healing their relationship with the outdoors, know that healing takes time and encouragement. As you enter your outdoorsy baddie era with little to no experience, we are here to help process, plan, and demystify what it means to lay your head in the grass and breathe in that sweet, sweet air.
Join a Community
You are not alone, even when it might feel like it. Do your research to find other folks in your community who are creating more inclusive and inviting outdoor experiences. In many urban environments, organizations, community centers, and education institutions sponsor identity-led groups to participate in outdoor play. When you begin your outdoor journey, you don’t want to join a club of experienced hikers who have all their gear, come from the same income bracket, and were in the same sorority. No, it is much more affirming (and encouraging) to be surrounded by people who think and live like you. Black hiking groups or queer birding clubs are just some of the many options that are out there, but as you get to know your outdoor interests, you can find even better-suited communities. Folks who share our identities offer a support system, keep us safe, and make it fun to try something new.
Debunking Myths
If outside is new to you, the densely packed trees, the unfamiliar sounds, and the distance from the city can ignite feelings of claustrophobia and a sense of danger. These feelings are valid and proof that your body and brain know how to protect you (these are your survival instincts!).
So which of these fears are exaggerated, or altogether untrue? Debunking the fake ones and preparing for the real ones will help you get started.
Teva’s Mental Health Institute has ideas for prepping yourself before facing these fears. Believe us! It will get easier over time.
Bugs & Creatures - Bugs are always a bother. But eventually, we can go from being afraid of bugs to being annoyed by them and, if you are especially ambitious, maybe even loving them. If you did grow up outside often you may remember the saying, “Bugs are more afraid of you than you are of them.” While our fear is subjective, it is a good reminder. Bugs and creatures don’t want to mess with us – we are big and loud. This means that if we are respectful (stay on the trail and not in their face) we can live in perfect harmony! And, if we are prepared, we can mitigate our anxiety before and after exposure to any creature.
Plants & Poison - It is true that when we go on a hike or lay in the grass we might be closer than we realize to some itchy, sticky plants. However, most of us will not be in grave danger after coming into contact with a poisonous plant. Before you set out for a hike, familiarize yourself with the plants in that region and what might be around you. Look it up online or check with the desk at the visitor center – they usually have helpful pamphlets to learn about what is around you too. If you do touch something icky, don’t panic! It can be uncomfortable, but we have medications and ointments to protect and heal our skin afterward.
Safety 101
Ticks & Bug Bites - Like with plants, it is important to research the bugs in your region before setting out for a hike. What they look like, where they live, and what their bites look like are essential information. In tall grass, wear pants and long sleeves to protect your skin. Spray your clothes with citronella or lavender to deter any bugs. After you finish a hike, always do a tick check: take off all your clothes and examine your body (especially in the dark and warm spots) for any lingering bugs. If you do have a tick, here’s how to remove them, and always be ready to call your doctor if necessary.
Plants - Plants to familiarize yourself with for hikes in the U.S. are poison ivy, poison oak, stinging nettle, and poison sumac. These are all plants that are poisonous on tactile exposure. Don’t eat anything you see in the wild (unless told to by a foraging professional!) Always wear protective long sleeves and long socks. And remember, if something happens and you get itchy, taking care of your skin and healing from the exposure is fairly stress-free.
Sunscreen - This one is obvious! Wear your sunscreen and reapply it throughout your time outside. Stay hydrated both physically and topically. If you need sustainable sunscreen recs check our list here.
Check the weather & prepare for your experience - As you research what plants are out there and what bugs you might meet, look into the rigor of your hike and what additional equipment you might need. Ask yourself, “What’s the weather? Will I want a snack? How much water will I need to drink? Will I want to take a break and read my book?” The more prepared you are, the more fun you will have. And always stay on the trail and listen to the environmental experts around you!
Get yourself some gear
Library & REI for gear rental - As you expand your adventure horizons, utilize public gear rental resources in your area. Many outdoor shops like REI will let you rent out packs, tents, and sleeping bags. Some libraries will also offer resources and might even give you some exploration books. Renting is a good way to learn which styles you like before investing.
Gear swaps & outdoor thrift stores - Once you are ready to start investing in your outdoorsy hobby, look to used or secondhand spaces before buying new. Often, gear needs some breaking in time anyway, so someone's pre-loved gear is better for the wallet, the environment, and your body than that stiff and fresh new stuff.
TEVA, COTOPAXI, KKCO - When you want to buy new, check out our favorite sustainable outdoor brands or look at the recs on our website.
Use what you have - It might not look as fancy-shmancy as the other kids on the trail, but what you already wear to the gym or for a walk on a sunny morning can translate to a hiking environment. Just be comfortable and ready to shed layers when things get hot. And always poll your friends and family for what gear they may have!
Let’s Get OUTSIDE!