May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the importance of our emotional and psychological well-being. Here in Knox County, we understand the profound connection between nature and mental health. That's why we're excited to introduce our "Wilderness and Well-being" Guide, designed to inspire you to unlock the restorative power of our green spaces.
In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the daily grind. Stress and anxiety can take a toll, leaving us feeling depleted and disconnected. While there's no “one size fits all” solution, we hope you’ll join us as we take this conversation outside. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors can reduce stress hormones, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. Beyond those benefits, nature sparks our creativity, enhances our focus, and promotes a sense of calm we are constantly search for.
Knox County is a haven for those seeking to unplug and recharge, and now we have the simple guide to gently let nature guide you back to you.
See yourself hiking through Honey Run Waterfall Park, the gentle sound of the cascading water washing away your worries…
See yourself enjoying a misty morning on your kayak at Knox Lake, the late-spring sun warming your skin as you glide across the tranquil surface…
See yourself leaving the noise at home and pedaling onto a peaceful trail, rich with forestry, wild flowers and the sweet sounds of birds humming a tune…
See yourself sitting on the Wolf Run Fishing Dock, collecting the sounds of silence and feeling the low buzz of your body and mind recharging…
Our Wilderness and Well-being Guide is more than just an invitation; it's a call to action. We encourage you to make time for nature this month (and all year long); whether it's a short walk in a local park or a weekend camping trip under the stars. This guide is the “permission slip” you’ve been needing and the “out-of-office” your mind is begging for.
This Mental Health Awareness Month, the journey to a healthier and happier you starts here with us.
Go Wild. Feel Well.
Share your journey with us on Instagram @visitknoxohio and tag #gowildfeelwellknox, at the end of the month we’ll surprise some well-being wanderers with some cool prizes.
While our trails offer a path to peace, sometimes the journey inward requires a different kind of guide. Download the Local Resource Guide to connect with a mental health professional.
NAMI is the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. In Every Story, There's Strength.
