caption:

As a young adult who is now 21 years of age, I have been told by many that I have an old soul. I have survived rape, three different and serious eating disorders, being suicidal for many years (eventually leading to a serious attempt), and a week in the psych ward. I credit nature with saving my ass.
Hiking has taught me that small actions are no small feet. The seemingly simple act of faithfully putting one foot in front of the other will ultimately take you to your goal, whether that be a walk around the block or a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. When I was sick, I could only focus on one day, one step, at a time. Now, I look at my life, and I am able to smile with the butt crack of dawn, delightfully running down a mountain, quietly filled with the simple pleasure of existing, imperfectly and whole, as I am.

location

Humpback Rock, Rockfish, VA, USA

subject

@catieleiigh @bonnieandclydegetoutside

photographer

@oliviaflink

What does it feel like to #getyourassintonature?

exhilarating. freeing. natural.

What is your favorite part about #getyourassintonature?

the body positive and diversity! huge activist on my own feed for both (appropriate) nudity and equality in the outdoors

What does adventure mean to you?

Going beyond the limits of your preparation. Encountering the unexpected. Pushing your limits to only discover that they were further than you though. Embracing discomfort in every way possible. Learning to love the feeling of being a beginner, because it means you have so much to learn.

How do you exhibit courage when you #getyourassintonature?

I am finally unashamed and unapologetic about being wholly myself. I am so strong, so smart, so brave, and so filled with gratitude for the fact that I am still here and able to watch the sun rise. Coming this close to death gives you a new perspective on life, and for that, I do not regret a thing.