Throughout my life, I have often felt extreme overwhelm. In those moments, I wished there were a switch on my back I could flip to power down. Whether it was my time in school, working in the restaurant industry, or tackling the never-ending to-do list of a homeschooling, stay-at-home mom of four, I found myself drained dry—or, as many say now, “burned out.” 

I would often go into a desperate life assessment, listing priorities and searching for time-wasting habits that might be dragging me down. Sometimes, it was clarifying, but more often, I was left staring at a list of things I actually wanted to do. I wasn’t finding much “fat to trim.” Something had to give—I either had to let go of things I deeply cared about or find a better way to hold it all. It’s not in my nature to put things down once I’ve picked them up, so removing things from my proverbial basket wasn’t the answer. Instead, I needed to throw out the basket and start from the ground up. 

I began reflecting on what truly recharged me. I didn’t just want a quick fix—I wanted something simple, effective, and easy to repeat for my neurodivergent, scatterbrained self. My list included things like an at-home spa day, calling or visiting a friend, exercising, starting a creative craft project, baking, and, finally, getting cozy and taking a nap. These things were nice and nourishing, but what I needed wasn’t just comfort—it was a total reboot. 

I wanted something that would reach all my senses, making me feel renewed long after the moment passed. Something that could fuel and inspire me. And then it clicked—the great and beautiful outdoors. 

Looking back at the most joyful, playful, peaceful, and fulfilling moments in my life, there was one common thread: they all took place outside. Whether it was watching roly-polies in the backyard as a young girl, playing in the fields during recess, taking trips to the beach, walking through the woods while camping, swimming in Arizona’s scorching summers, gathering around bonfires with friends, or even just walking to work instead of driving—it all happened outdoors. 

It seems obvious now. “Just get some fresh air, touch the grass, step into the morning sunshine.” But back then, I wasn’t thinking, Wow, that 20-minute walk to work really cleared my head and reset my nervous system. I was simply enjoying the moment. I had no idea that my self-awareness and ability to check in with my well-being were at an all-time low. But once I realized that every time I was outside, I felt better—no matter what I was doing—it was mind-blowing. 

All this time, the answer had been right in front of me. And yet, like so many others, I had never been taught that all health-rich roads start with fresh air, sunshine, and pure, unadulterated nature. That led me to an even deeper realization: it’s not just about being outside. It’s about intentionally being outside. 

It’s about unplugging, stepping out with awareness, and engaging all the senses. It’s about noticing the vibrant colors, listening to the leaves dance in the wind or the birds singing, smelling the citrus from a neighbor’s yard or the fresh scent after a morning drizzle, feeling the crisp air on my cheek. Instead of being bombarded by constant digital stimulation, these primal, natural stimuli offer a reset—a deep, cellular exhale that we all need. 

From this understanding, I have implemented mandatory outdoor adventures in my life and my children’s lives. From this understanding, I have grown deeper in my faith and belief in God, whose creation serves us endlessly. And from this understanding, I have created Saguaros Journey—a place to create, inspire, and share. 

Life outdoors. Life from home. Life with heart. 

Thank you for being here. 
God Bless,  Adria Morey