Healing in Nature // With Molly Kelly
Molly and Rachel became instagram friends through a shared love of fantasy novels, spending time in nature, colorful art, and mental health awareness. Then last summer Molly visited the Lofoten islands and they finally got to hang out in person!! To this day they send each other way too many funny reels (mostly about fantasy novels).
Join us for a chat with Molly about mental health, nature, grief, and being present in and grateful for our lives, amidst the ups and downs!
Q: Tell us about your background! Where are you based, what sparks joy for you?
A: "Hi! I'm Molly, I live in the Midwest, and I work in healthcare as a care coordinator. I love exploring, reading, traveling, hiking and paddling any chance I get. I've been an ambassador for Women Who Explore for 5 years, and love being inspired by the people in that community. I'm passionate about photography and content creation, because I love capturing memories, and I find it important to share about mental health."
Q: Why are you so passionate about mental health and your work to destigmatize mental illness?
A: "I had my first manic episode at 21 and was diagnosed as bipolar shortly after. I used to be really ashamed that I had bipolar disorder. It was the end of the world for me. But I've come to realize that having a mental illness or a mental health condition, it's not an ending, it's a new beginning.
I had to approach life differently after my diagnosis, but I’ve realized different doesn’t mean bad. It’s shaped me into the person I am today, someone with even more empathy and understanding than before. I don’t hesitate to set boundaries and say no to things that won’t benefit my mental stability. I’m so grateful that I’m here and I’m so proud that I keep fighting for all my tomorrows.
Speaking about suicide is very top of mind for me right now. We lose people that way so often, and so many people struggle with those types of thoughts. Unfortunately, it's still a sort of taboo subject, but if we don't have these conversations then nothing is going to change.
There are so many things to fight for, and for me, its about sharing my own experiences so people know no matter how dark the times seem or how alone you might feel, the sun will come out tomorrow."
Q: What is a simple first step anyone can take to improve and prioritize their mental health?
A: "I encourage everyone and anyone to go to therapy. Even if you don't think you have anything to talk about, there is always something a therapist can help you work through whether is a past issue, current struggle, or even a future anxiety. Therapy can really save your life!"
Q: Tell us about your ideal day in nature!
A: "Good vibes, good friends, good music! Just a few weeks ago I had the best day outside.
A: "Good vibes, good friends, good music! Just a few weeks ago I had the best day outside.
I got up early at 6:00 a.m., put on Noah Kahan and drove the backroads through the the river. A bunch of my friends were camping there, and I drove up to meet them for the day. We had breakfast and pulled our Crazy Creek chairs at to the river, we spent the day relaxing and enjoying ourselves!
After about 5 hours at the river, I packed up and drove solo to Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park. I hiked to the Shut-Ins, ate a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and watched the sun set."
Q: How has having a Crazy Creek Chair changed how you spend time outdoors?
A: "My chair has really helped me slow down in nature. When I bring it on a hike, I actually take time to be still and soak in what's around me. It definitely helps me to practice gratitude by giving me a spot to rest and reflect when I'm out exploring. It's like having a reminder that taking a break is essential to appreciate where I'm at or how far I've come.
I unexpectedly lost my soul dog, Beau a few months ago, and the grief process has been very difficult. Beau was my go-to adventure buddy. I brought him everywhere with me. I got my first Crazy Creek a couple years ago, and Beau and I would go searching for sunset spots. Now, when I revisit our favorite places, I really feel him with me!"
If you enjoyed this article, please go follow Molly on Instagram!
