Shared by Christine Rajagopal, as Guest Blogger.

This morning the song “Spider Webs” by No Doubt popped into my head as I followed the Channel Cat Trail in Bear Creek Lake State Park, at our Park of the Month for October. 

Upon arriving at work I found myself mulling over the various stresses of everyday life. From bills to chores to emails, we all have different stressors in our lives. As a wonderful perk of my position as Park Interpreter, I decided to take a hike and check out the trails after the seemingly endless period of rain we’ve had.

 Park visitors can see a variety of flora and fauna on the Channel Cat Loop Trail

It wasn’t long before I had walked into a few spider webs, spun overnight in the hopes of catching a fresh meal the next day. It was then that I thought of that song, and I was suddenly pondering how long it must have taken the spider to build its web and how very detailed it looked. I thought, even though I’ve broken the web, surely it will get right back to work and rebuild by tomorrow. I looked down and saw tracks in the mud of a White-tailed deer following the same path I was following. I looked up and appreciated the sunlight finally breaking through the branches overhead. Those anxious thoughts were gone and my mind was clear.

Dragonflies are often found on the trails that line the shore of Bear Creek Lake

Nature has been used as therapy for a long time. Research has shown that getting outdoors and spending time in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It also has an impact on physical health. Whether you’re hiking a long trail or just getting some fresh air in a scenic location, your body benefits.

Take a hike and breathe in the scents of a changing fall forest, or find peace listening to the sounds of the lake

This month, why not visit Bear Creek Lake State Park which is also our Park of the Month and walk into a few spider webs? Or better yet, find your own nature therapy. Take a hike and breathe in the scents of a changing fall forest, or find peace listening to the sounds of the lake. We have miles of trails to hike as far or near as you like.

Tell stress to leave a message...calling back is up to you.