With the advent of spring, there is a call to the outdoors, a pull to engage with the Earth, walk among the trees and feel our hearts lift to the joyous melodies of robins, warblers, wrens and sparrows. The spring ephemerals emerging among the rich brown remnants of autumn leaves are early greeters; reminders of new life after winter’s hibernation. In our region, we have the good fortune of access to green and blue spaces; forests and meadows, rivers and lakes that beckon us to walk their paths, rest by their shores and soak in fresh air.

The time we spend in nature is an investment in our well-being; studies show myriad benefits: increased calm and relaxation, reduced stress, improved concentration, more joy. Even a short stroll in a tree-lined downtown park breaks up the day and refreshes our minds, opens our lungs and engages our muscles.

A divergence from routine may extend to a weekend getaway or a longer sojourn, and this month’s theme of Eco-Travel invites us to make conscious choices so that our staycations and vacations are beneficial for us and not harmful to others and the planet. More awareness is raised with tips to reduce our ecological footprint in the “Heal Our World Checklist” and opportunities to engage with the community abound in our calendars with Earth Day events, native plant and mushroom festivals and more. 

Whether we travel to exotic locations, visit Yellowstone, set up camp at a state park, hike in our own Berks Nature and Lancaster Conservancy nature preserves or bike the rail trails that wind their way through farmland and forests, we recharge and renew, creating memories for a lifetime.

May you be inspired by travel past, present and future, buoyed by memories and pulled to the great outdoors. 

Happy Spring!

Kendra Campbell and Jacqueline Mast, Co-Publishers, Executive Editors