From childhood adventures to post-trauma recovery, explore how our parks support our well-being— and why access to them matters. Summary: Nature has long been a source of wonder, healing, and connection. But access to those green spaces—from neighborhood parks to national treasures—are increasingly at risk. In this episode of The Science of Happiness , we hear how awe-inspiring outdoor experiences can help us feel more alive and less alone, and what we can do to protect those spaces. How To Do This Practice: Step outside with intention , even if it’s just to your backyard, a nearby park, or a patch of grass. Pause and take a few deep breaths to ground yourself and shift your attention from doing to simply being. Notice the details around you . The movement of leaves, the pattern of clouds, the sound of birds or distant traffic. Look for something that surprises or moves you , no matter how small, like a weed blooming through concrete or shifting light on a tree. Let yourself feel whatever arises , whether it’s wonder, calm, grief, or joy—there’s no right way to experience awe. Before you return indoors, take a moment to reflect on what you saw or felt, and how it might shift your day or perspective. Scroll down for a transcription of this episode. Today’s Guests: STACY BARE is a climber, mountaineer, and skier. Climbing helped Stacy recover from PTSD from a year in Baghdad as a Civil Affairs Team Leader in the Army. He is the recipient of the Bronze Star for merit and a combat action badge and named one of National Geographic’s Adventurers of the Year for 2014. Follow Stacy on Instagram: @stacyabare Add Stacy on Linkedin: https://tinyurl.com/49zazw8f Related The Science of Happiness episodes: The Healing Effects of Experiencing Wildlife: https://tinyurl.com/bde5av4z How to Do Good for the Environment (And Yourself): https://tinyurl.com/5b26zwkx Experience Nature Wherever You Are, with Dacher: https://tinyurl.com/mrutudeh Related Happiness Breaks: How To Ground Yourself in Nature: https://tinyurl.com/25ftdxpm Pause to Look at the Sky: https://tinyurl.com/4jttkbw3 A Walking Meditation: https://tinyurl.com/mwbsen7a Tell us about your experience with this practice. Email us at
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