I feel connected to the land through both the life it gives me and the care I try to give back to it. I connect with the land through gardening, running, biking, snowboarding, swimming in lakes and rivers, and hiking in the mountains. The land gives me life not only through the air I breathe and the water I rely on, but through the way it supports my well-being and sense of self.

Being surrounded by the mountains makes me feel like I am home. In contrast, the openness of the prairies can make me feel vulnerable and exposed. I truly feel that I was meant to be surrounded and held by the Rocky Mountains. When I spend time outdoors, I feel grounded, calm, energized, and more focused. Being connected to the land helps me regain perspective and reminds me of the importance of caring for and respecting the environment around me.