You hear the same advice every summer: slather on sunscreen and limit your time in the sun. Those rules still apply, but not everyone is getting the message.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, according to the ; one out of every five people will develop skin cancer before the age of 70. Over the past three decades, skin cancer . Between 2011 and 2019 alone, rates increased by 31.5 percent. What’s behind the rise?

鈥淭he overall increase in skin cancers has to do with cumulative sun exposure combined with lack of adequate sun block or protection from UVA/UVB rays,鈥� says Dr. Ava Shamban, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles, California.

It’s time to get smarter about your sun exposure. Here are five things you need to know about sun exposure, according to a dermatologist, plus tips for enjoying the sun more safely.

1. Wearing Sunscreen Every Day of the Year Is a Must

You may not think about wearing sunscreen when it鈥檚 cloudy or rainy or even during winter. Yet you should. Why?

鈥淭he most harmful ultraviolet rays are present every day,鈥� Shamban says. 鈥淭hey don鈥檛 retreat in winter and can filter through dark cloud coverage, which is why any uncovered areas of the body at any time of the year are exposed and vulnerable to the damage of the sun鈥檚 UV rays.鈥�

Dermatologist-approved tips:

• Lather on sunscreen after you shower: make sunscreen application as much a part of your daily routine as brushing your teeth. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB with an SPF of at least 30 and slather it on when you get out of the shower in the morning, as you would lotion.
• Put it on areas likely to be exposed to sunlight: this includes your legs, arms, shoulders, d茅colletage, neck, face, ears, and hands. The also suggests a lip balm with sunscreen. You might even add a hand cream, moisturizer, or makeup with sun protection to your daily routine. These won鈥檛 replace sunscreen but will offer added support for vulnerable areas that are never covered in your reapplication plan, Shamban says.

2. One Bottle of Sunscreen Should Only Last You a Couple of Months

How quickly you go through that sunscreen depends not only on how big the bottle is but also on how well you鈥檙e applying it. In general, though, aim to go through at least one bottle during the summer, more if you鈥檙e sharing that bottle with others. If your bottle lingers, it鈥檚 a sign you鈥檙e probably not using enough.

Dermatologist-approved tips:

• Measure one ounce of sunscreen: The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends applying an ounce of sunscreen to your face and body. That鈥檚 about the size of a shot glass; for easy reference, keep a shot glass in your bathroom to help you measure it, Shamban says.
• Don’t skip your face: Your face alone should get a nickel-sized amount, says Dr. Adele Haimovic, a dermatologist based in New York. You should then reapply every two hours, she says.
• Don’t use expired sunscreen: Just watch those expiration dates, as sunscreen breaks down over time. 鈥淚鈥檝e seen people who have gotten burns because they used expired sunscreen,鈥� she adds. Once a year, go through all your sunscreens and toss any that have expired.

3. Skin Cancer Around the Eyes Is More Common Than You Think

Although any exposed skin may be prone to developing skin cancer, the skin around your eyes is particularly vulnerable because it鈥檚 thin and delicate, Shamban says. Roughly five to 10 percent of all basal cell carcinomas occur on the eyelids.

Dermatologist-approved tips:

• Wear polarized sunglasses: While you should always wear sun-protective eyewear when outdoors, choose a darker, polarized lens rated for ultraviolet protection; most sunglasses don鈥檛 have enough UV protection alone.
• Toss on a hat: If you don’t have polarized glasses, opt for a wide-brimmed hat that gives you at least three inches of shade. You can also use an umbrella to limit sun exposure.
• Consider alternative sun care products: Sunscreen is crucial, but if it bothers your eyes and causes a stinging sensation, use a mineral version, one containing zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide, Haimovic says. You can also try a fragrance-free sunscreen for sensitive skin. Alternatively, use a protective powder with an SPF rating for your eyelids; try a stick formula or one with a 鈥渄oe foot鈥� applicator, which allows more precise application versus your finger, Shamban says. A broad-based sun-protection eye cream will also do the trick.

4. UV Light Can Penetrate Through Windows

Being by windows can give your mental health a boost, but know that those windows, whether in your home, office, or car, will expose you to harmful UV rays. There are two types of rays鈥擴VA and UVB鈥攁nd each one affects the skin differently. UVB rays are the classic burning rays, the most common cause of sunburns and the type most associated with skin cancer, says Haimovic.

Meanwhile, although UVA rays can cause sun damage and also lead to skin cancer, they鈥檙e associated more with aging, and it鈥檚 these rays that penetrate more through windows. 鈥淢ost glass does not protect against UVA exposure,鈥� Shamban says, adding that while some of the UVB rays get through, all of the UVA rays do. That鈥檚 one reason year-round sunscreen is so critical on exposed parts of your body.

Dermatologist-approved tips:

• Buy UV protection shields for car windows.
• Clothing can even add another layer of protection.
• Look for detergents that wash sun protection into your clothing.

5. Training 国产吃瓜黑料 Increases Skin Cancer Risk

While this may be a no-brainer, it鈥檚 worth repeating: if you鈥檙e logging the miles outside, you鈥檙e at an increased risk of skin cancer.

• Reapply often: because you’re sweating so much sunscreen off, you聽 ‘ll need to reapply more frequently if you’re training outside.
• Avoid the brightest times of the day: plan your workouts so you鈥檙e not outside when the rays are at their strongest, generally between 10 am and 4 pm.

Bottom line? 鈥淓ven if the sun doesn鈥檛 shine, it鈥檚 not a free pass from sun protection,鈥� Shamban says. 鈥淯ltraviolet rays don鈥檛 take a vacation, and skin cancer knows no season.鈥�

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We鈥檝e all been there. Your workout is over. Maybe you did some yoga or a HIIT session. But you have an errand or prior commitment that you cannot skip…again. Perhaps you’re so exhausted that you don’t feel like moving, let alone going home, peeling off your sweaty clothes, taking a shower, scrubbing down, washing your hair, and maybe shaving all the things if that’s your vibe. It’s all too much, and dread kicks in.

You don鈥檛 feel great about wearing your sweaty clothes (especially yoga pants or leggings), but how bad can it really be to hang out in sweaty clothes for a few hours? The answer: not great.

3 Icky Things Can Happen

Some of us might feel an underlying sense of unease when we鈥檙e unable to hit the showers immediately after class, certain we鈥檙e just asking for a gynecological or dermatological headache. Others may worry about clogging pores or offending our coworkers. We might even chastise ourselves for feeling lazy.

If you just can鈥檛 be bothered, don鈥檛 beat yourself up. Staying in your sweaty yoga pants, leggings, or bike shorts won鈥檛 create a life-altering imbalance. But it could create some, er, discomfort.

1. Fungal Infections on the Genital Area

Let鈥檚 set the record straight: 鈥淪itting around in sweaty yoga pants is not going to cause a yeast infection,鈥� says , an obstetrician-gynecologist. A yeast infection occurs when the bacteria in your vagina are out of balance. Taking antibiotics, pregnancy, or hormonal disturbances, unmanaged diabetes, or having a weakened immune system all contribute to someone’s possibility of getting a yeast infection.

The issue of lounging around in sweaty undies is more of an external one. 鈥淚f you get a skin rash in the external genital area, that could be a fungal infection (officially called vulvar candidiasis),鈥� explains Messore.

2. Pimples or Rashes on the Butt

Acne on the buttocks is often referred to as . Yep. 鈥淚 often see patients who experience skin issues from wearing sweaty, tight-fitting clothing, like yoga pants, for extended periods,鈥� says , a dermatologist in New York City and Palm Beach, Florida. 鈥淚t creates an environment that can trap sweat, oil, and bacteria against your skin.鈥� And that sweat buildup and friction can cause skin irritations such as rashes, breakouts on the butt, even folliculitis, she explains.

A quick primer on the difference. 鈥淧imples may appear more as blackheads or whiteheads,鈥� says Kopelman. 鈥淔olliculitis usually presents as red, inflamed bumps or pustules around hair follicles and can be itchy or tender. While pimples can sometimes become infected, they aren鈥檛 directly related to the hair follicle itself.鈥�

Folliculitis is when hair follicles become inflamed or infected, often due to bacteria, fungi, or friction from tight clothing, whereas pimples form when oil and dead skin cells clog pores, explains Kopelman. None of which is pleasant.

If you鈥檝e ever experienced an ingrown hair or clogged pore in your pelvic area, you know that it makes settling into Warrior 2 or a squat less than pleasant.

3. Smelling Like Sweat

It鈥檚 common knowledge that sweat is the body鈥檚 way of cooling down. But contrary to popular belief, sweat itself doesn鈥檛 necessarily smell. Only certain types of sweat produced by specific glands that have the potential to stink鈥攁nd even then, it鈥檚 but what鈥檚 in the sweat and how it mixes with bacteria on our skin or clothes. So sweat, on its own, is only one piece of the wet clothes puzzle.

Do This Instead of Sitting Around in Sweaty Clothes

Not surprisingly, the amount of time you sit around without changing after class makes a difference.

鈥淭he longer you sit in sweaty clothes, the worse it can be for your skin,鈥� says Kopelman. 鈥淏eyond just body odor, staying in damp workout gear for extended periods (like three hours versus 30 minutes) increases your risk of skin irritation, folliculitis, and even fungal infections. The moisture, bacteria, and friction from tight clothing can lead to more pronounced skin problems over time.鈥�

Wear Moisture-Wicking, Breathable, or Looser-Fitting Clothing

One solution both doctors recommend is moisture-wicking, cotton, and linen clothing that is lighter and more breathable. , a yoga instructor based in Brooklyn, New York, made the switch to flowing fabrics about eight years ago. 鈥淏oth my yoga practice and my teaching career started in hot yoga rooms, so I wore tight shorts and leggings for years. [Now I wear] flowier fabrics, and it is definitely the way to go.鈥� She opts for joggers over wide-leg or harem pants to avoid the nuisance of not getting tangled up in extra fabric during her practice.

Take Off Your Sweaty Clothes ASAP (Especially Your Underwear)

If you can鈥檛鈥攐r, for whatever reason, don鈥檛鈥攕hower immediately after class, Kopelman says the optimal solution is changing out of your workout clothes as soon as possible. 鈥淓ven though many leggings claim to be sweat-wicking, I still recommend changing out of tight-fitting clothing as soon as possible. This helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and friction.鈥�

Even reaching for a towel and drying your sweat can help.聽At a minimum, change your underwear and slip into a loose-fitting pair of pants. 鈥淚f I鈥檓 sweaty enough after a yoga class, I鈥檓 definitely changing or, in times of need, taking off my underwear and in looser pants,鈥� says Rex.

Already found yourself with skin irritation? If you have more than a few pimples or experience persistent, uncomfortable bumps, Kopelman recommends seeing a dermatologist. 鈥淭hese bumps could indicate folliculitis, fungal infections, or other conditions that may require medical treatment to resolve. If the discomfort persists or worsens, professional evaluation is always a good idea.鈥�

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Growing up, I hated traveling, though I couldn鈥檛 pinpoint why. All I knew was that the unfamiliarity of everything from hotel bed sheets to cultural customs felt wholly dysregulating.

When I was diagnosed with ADHD and autism at the ages of 19 and 22, respectively, everything clicked into place, and I was catapulted into a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. I realized the problem wasn鈥檛 travel鈥攊t was unmet needs.

, a UK-based psychologist who specializes in treating emotional issues and autism spectrum disorders, says, 鈥淏eing neurodivergent in a neurotypical world can be exhausting, especially while traveling.鈥� But, with a careful plan that honors your needs, she says travel can be an incredibly enriching experience for neurodivergent folks.

So, in November 2024, I booked a six-day solo trip from New York City聽to Western Europe. I鈥檇 spend four days in Amsterdam, staying in a shared hostel room, and two days in Paris, opting for a private hostel room. I was excited for the adventure, but I knew I鈥檇 need to scrap the idea of what a good trip should look like.

As a neurodivergent person, my needs, particularly sensory and social, may look different than a neurotypical person鈥檚, so it was important for me to make a highly personalized plan.

Here鈥檚 what I did to accommodate my needs on my trip鈥攁nd what I鈥檒l do differently next time.

1. Noise-Cancelling Headphones Are a Must

When I was packing up my bag, I made sure to include noise-cancelling headphones and earplugs to manage my sensory sensitivities. When I鈥檓 in environments with loud or conflicting noises, like train stations, museums, and airports, my fight-or-flight reaction revs up, and I become anxious, agitated, and even struggle to think clearly.

I typically use the to dim the noise, but I opted for disposable earplugs on this trip so I wouldn鈥檛 risk losing my own. My headphones are particularly beneficial during bedtime because I鈥檓 sensitive to sounds like buzzing machinery or breathing when trying to fall asleep.

2. Attaching Items to My Body Helped Quell Fears of Losing Them

I didn鈥檛 check a bag and kept most of my belongings in a large backpack, but I stored all of my valuables, such as my ID, passport, and wallet, in a fanny pack around my waist.

As someone who often on the what-ifs, courtesy of autism’s differences in cognitive processing, and an extensive history of , courtesy of ADHD’s differences in working memory and executive functioning, it was nice to have a degree of security.

Having my essentials physically attached to my body was a helpful, tactile way to assure myself I had everything I needed. Whenever I found myself worrying I was missing something, I鈥檇 just touch my fanny pack and know everything was in place. I had only planned to use the fanny pack during travel, but I ended up wearing it every day.

3. I Abandoned the Belief That I Needed to “See It All”

I knew that trying to cram in as much sightseeing as possible would be a fast track to burnout, so I opted for flexible planning based on my moment-to-moment energy levels. I drafted a loose plan for each day, with one or two activities to frame my time around.

On my first full day in Paris, I planned a morning trip to the Carnavalet Museum, the city’s oldest museum, and an evening stroll through the shops in the Arts et M茅tiers neighborhood. While I initially worried my empty afternoon was a 鈥渨aste鈥� of the city,听 having less on my plate meant less worrying about managing details like getting to the right place at the right time and getting tickets organized. All of this extra time meant I was able to take a beat and decompress in my room鈥攚hich brings me to my next point.

4. I Blocked Out Time to Chill and Regulate My Emotions

Alone time can be an important time for many neurodivergent individuals, , to self-regulate, process emotions, reduce sensory overwhelm, and recharge social battery.

I scheduled daily time for rest in the afternoon, both in my hostel room and in my private room. I closed the blinds and just listened to my comfort music, largely songs from Broadway musicals. Taking time for myself to be alone and disengage from the chaos outside allowed me to be more present in the activities I did choose to do.

5. A Good Night鈥檚 Sleep Is Non-Negotiable

I prioritized quality sleep. I know I don鈥檛 operate well without a good night’s rest, so while the others in my hostel got up bright and early, I made sure to stay in bed until my body was ready (which sometimes looked as late as 11 A.M.).

I may have missed out on some landmarks, but giving myself additional time to rest allowed me to truly relish and appreciate the beauty of the ones I did see.

6. I Tested Out Different Housing Accommodations

I booked a four-person hostel room in Amsterdam because I wanted to save money on housing, and, quite frankly, I was curious to see how I鈥檇 handle it. I strongly disliked sleepovers growing up because they disrupted my sleep routine and need for alone time, but I wanted to know if I鈥檇 feel the same in a hostel situation.

Because I had an inkling that staying in a hostel would be a stretch for me, I splurged on a private room in a hostel for myself in Paris. I booked both of these accommodations about a month before my trip.

By day three in Amsterdam, I felt myself shutting down and feeling stressed by my inability to 鈥渆scape鈥� the world around me. Knowing that I鈥檇 soon be able to hunker down in a private room in Paris kept me feeling optimistic. I鈥檓 so glad I booked the private room, as it allowed me to decompress in a quiet, dark space and reenergize myself for my last two days of sightseeing.

Not Everything on My Trip Went Smoothly. Here’s What I’ll Do Differently Next Time.

I’ll Never Book a Middle Seat Again

I often feel stressed and restless during long plane or train rides, so next time I鈥檒l seek out aisle seats, rather than the middle seats I chose to save money, for easy access to stand up or use the restroom. This will also relieve the anxiety of having to interact with the people in my row to get up, which can be a barrier for me to address my need for movement.

Ker adds that some neurodivergent folks may like wearing a while traveling, which people with invisible disabilities use as a way to signal that they may need extra support. She also adds that 鈥渕any large stations and airports offer support to those that need help finding their way around, a quiet area or early boarding.鈥�

Night Travel Is Out of the Question

I chose a late-night train ride from Amsterdam to Paris to maximize my time, but it disrupted my nighttime routine and sleep schedule, and I paid the price the next day in fatigue and stress. My nighttime routine is sacred to me and makes me feel safe, comfortable, and regulated, so I will prioritize keeping that in check above all else.

Ker encourages neurodivergent folks to consider what things will help them feel regulated and relaxed. 鈥淭ry to anchor your day with some predictable routines where you can.鈥�

I’ll Keep My Documents More Organized

Although I had all my essentials tucked into my fanny pack, I鈥檇 like to keep a more robust digital library of my tickets and documents. I often found myself fumbling around for tickets and worrying that somehow something was lost. 鈥淔or a neurodivergent brain that struggles with tasks relating to executive function, carefully planning, making lists, and having backup plans in case of missed trains might be important,鈥� says Ker.

Finding More Moments of Solitude

I would consider budgeting better in other areas, like food and transportation, in order to afford a solo room in a hostel or hotel. I think I would鈥檝e enjoyed my trip more and had fewer crashes if I were able to retreat to my own space at will. Ker suggests that neurodivergent people allot space for alone time and adequate rest. Don鈥檛 fall into the trap of trying to cram in too much,鈥� she says.

Bring Better Earplugs

Next time, I’ll bring along some stronger earplugs to help me create the illusion of solitude when it鈥檚 not possible. I really struggled in the hostel because I felt dysregulated by the sound of people moving and breathing, so I would have benefited from bringing a higher-quality pair of plugs.

No More Winter Trips

Ker encourages neurodivergent folks to really consider where they want to go. 鈥淪ome cultures are more neurodivergent friendly than others. Do you prefer busy cities or rural mountains? Do you have a passion or interest motivating your travel?鈥�

For me, this means traveling during warmer months or to a warmer destination. My wintertime trip made me realize that I dislike the sensation of wearing heavy clothes, and I struggle with the transition of putting layers on and taking them off. Being in a warmer environment would be a game-changer.

My first solo travel experience was magical and challenging all at once, and I can鈥檛 wait for the next. I鈥檓 still learning to take things slow, listening to my body, and unassigning myself from the neurotypical standard of what traveling should look like.

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Have you ever wondered why your mind suddenly feels unburdened in the presence of trees? Or why the ocean so effortlessly lulls you into a meditative state? Outdoor spaces are scientifically proven to 鈥攁nd quickly.

Think about it: Forests ground you. Mountains lift you. Water opens you. Jungles awaken you. Even sitting in a park beneath a tree restores you.

Still, despite these truths, we exist in an era of indoor living. The average American spends approximately , and we鈥檙e increasingly glued to screens that consume hours of our valuable time and are known to and deplete mental reserves.

Natural environments, on the other hand, have been found to , helping us feel calm while offering a physiological reset鈥攁nd it turns out that different landscapes positively impact well-being in various ways.

Any Kind of Green Space Is Beneficial

But don鈥檛 worry, urbanites. You don鈥檛 need to leave the city to feel the effects of nature. According to Lindsay McCunn, a professor of Psychology at Vancouver Island University and co-editor-in-chief of the Journal of Environmental Psychology, any experience of nature, not just its size or scale, is beneficial.

鈥淓nvironmental psychology research shows that green spaces on a smaller scale, such as a tree-lined street, a neighborhood park, or a rooftop garden, can yield restorative benefits,鈥� says McCunn. 鈥淭hey also play a critical role in social health, with access to green space being linked to stronger community ties, lower rates of depression, and greater resilience.鈥�

McCunn adds that even simulated nature, depicted in things like artwork, photos, and video footage, can provide modest benefits. Still, if you can access wilder parts of the world, soaking it up in person is advisable. Whether it’s the rhythmic pull of the tide, the stillness of a desert plain, or the sensory abundance of a rainforest, each natural environment speaks a different language and affects us in distinct ways鈥攔educing our heart rate, shifting our mood, and returning us to a more balanced state.

5 Outdoor Spaces That Calm You Down (and Why)

From lush forests to awe-inspiring mountains, these outdoor spaces naturally encourage humans to unwind.

1. Forests

Forest bathing,听, can boost immunity and provide the body with a hormonal reset. After just two days in a forest, participants showed a 50 percent increase in natural killer cell activity鈥攁 key part of immune defense鈥攁s well as a reduction in stress hormones.

鈥淒appled light, the scent of soil, the rustle of leaves鈥攁ll of these elements engage what psychologists call 鈥榮oft fascination,鈥� gently holding our attention without overstimulating it,鈥� says neuroscientist and certified nature and forest therapy guide .

This mental pause allows our prefrontal cortex (the part of the brain responsible for planning and decision-making) to rest, reducing mental fatigue and supporting emotional regulation, says Del Punta. She explains that from an evolutionary perspective, forests offered our ancestors food, shelter, and safety, so it makes sense that our bodies still respond with a sense of ease under the forest鈥檚 tree canopy.

鈥淕reen spaces play a key role in supporting our psychological, physiological, and social well-being,鈥� says McCunn. McCunn highlights how the multisensory aspects of nature, such as the sounds of birds, as well as the visual complexity and fractal, or repeating, patterns of vegetation, can minimize cognitive load and aid in mindfulness.

2. Oceans, Lakes, and Rivers

The ocean has a way of calming even the most restless of minds, inviting you to think a little less, breathe a little more slowly, and release what鈥檚 weighing on you. 鈥淏lue mind鈥� is the term coined by the late marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols to describe the semi-meditative state induced by being in or near water.

Del Punta describes it as a gentle, open awareness marked by creativity, emotional release, and calm. 鈥淎t a symbolic level, water mirrors our emotional landscape鈥攃onstantly shifting, flowing, and offering space for release and renewal,鈥� says Del Punta. 鈥淏eing near it often feels like being closer to our own depths. Even just looking at water can lower heart rate and blood pressure, activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which governs rest and digestion.鈥�

A mere of watching water has been shown to result in relaxation. One on the psychological response to water sounds found that, within just one minute of listening to spring water sounds, participants鈥� negative emotions decreased by about 67 percent, and restorative well-being scores nearly doubled.

The sight and sound of moving water in 鈥渂lue鈥� environments, such as coastlines, rivers, and lakes, provide the same soft fascination experienced in green spaces, allowing the mind to wander and recover from cognitive fatigue without being overstimulated, explains McCunn.

McCunn stresses that it鈥檚 important to remember that personal and cultural associations play a role in how individuals respond to water in an environment. 鈥淔or some, water can evoke positive memories or connections that may augment water鈥檚 mood-regulating effects,鈥� she says. 鈥淗owever, for others, water may also evoke unpleasant thoughts or worries, based on prior experiences.鈥�

3. Mountains

Occupying roughly a quarter of our planet and featuring summits that reach staggering heights, mountain ranges never cease to stop us in our tracks and take our breath away, a response known as 鈥�.鈥� shows this powerful state of mindfulness can dampen the body鈥檚 stress response and change how we process information.

It also shatters expectations and quiets the ego, according to Del Punta. 鈥淢ountain environments expand our view, literally and metaphorically, and the wide-open perspective resets mental clutter and can recalibrate our sense of purpose and scale,鈥� she says.

One compared hikers at a mountain summit with those at the bottom and found that summit hikers not only had significantly greater feelings of awe but also an increased perception of time abundance, higher openness to learning, and greater experiential creativity.

Beyond its psychological benefits, time spent at higher altitudes also prompts physiological adaptations, such as improved oxygen regulation, circulation, endurance, and resilience, according to Del Punta. She adds that evolutionarily, vantage points gave our ancestors a survival edge. 鈥淧sychologically, they offer us clarity and orientation,鈥� she says. They also reconnect us to something larger鈥攙ast, ancient, and enduring. 鈥淚n their presence, we remember how small we are, and strangely, how whole,鈥� says Del Punta.

4. Desert

Many people would consider desert landscapes harsh, lifeless, and unwelcoming. But Del Punta notes that sparseness can be a balm for busy minds.

鈥淲ith their sparse terrain and vast silence, deserts strip everything down to essence, offering an environment nearly free of distraction,鈥� says Del Punta. This reduction in sensory input can promote deep introspection and emotional clarity. Deserts also amplify interoception鈥攐ur ability to sense and interpret inner bodily signals鈥攁nd invite stillness and reflection.

In her book , author Emma Loewe discusses how the expansive desert horizon inspires creative problem solving and gives way to spacious ideas. Loewe points to research, noting that when people attempt to solve problems, their eyes naturally gravitate to blank spaces, a visual tick to minimize outward distraction.

In comparing urban, green, and desert (aka 鈥渂rown鈥�) environments, desert walks were found to deliver stress reduction and comfort levels .

5. Rainforest

In stark contrast to the minimalism of the desert, rainforests are bursting with life. These biologically rich environments flood the senses in sound, color, movement, and scent.

鈥淭his sensory abundance stimulates the brain, awakening curiosity, presence, and emotional vibrancy,鈥� says Del Punta. 鈥淚n an environment that pulses with life, we鈥檙e reminded of our own aliveness鈥攗ntamed, embodied, and deeply connected to the wild world.鈥�

Exposure to these complex ecosystems supports mental well-being and has been associated with higher psychological resilience and greater emotional engagement.

Jane Goodall famously referred to rainforests as her 鈥渢emple.鈥� For her, the power of the landscapes is best understood by spending time within them. 鈥淔or those who have experienced the joy of being alone with nature, there is really little need for me to say much more,鈥� she reportedly said. 鈥淔or those who have not, no words of mine can ever describe the powerful, almost mystical knowledge of beauty and eternity that come, suddenly, and all unexpected.鈥�

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Do you regularly wake up feeling groggy and like you didn鈥檛 sleep enough? In our fast-paced existence, adequate sleep can feel not only elusive but like an act of radical self-care.

Many of us are accustomed to an emphasis on how long we sleep, with the recommended amount being . But a 5,000-year-old system of medicine, known as Ayurveda, asserts that when you sleep is equally critical.

The Natural Elements You Embody Inform Your Optimal Sleep Time

Originating in India, Ayurveda emphasizes understanding your body鈥檚 rhythms in pursuit of a more harmonious existence.

According to this ancient belief system, your body has a unique biological clock influenced by many things, including the five natural elements鈥攕pace, air, earth, fire, and water. These elements come together in varying proportions to create , also known as .

How to Figure Out Which Elements Power Your Bodily Functions

There are three doshas: vata, pitta, kapha. Each of the three doshas refers to a . For example, someone with a vata dosha is primarily influenced by space and air. Pitta people contain more fire and water, and those who are kapha are born with a mix of water and earth. (.)

Your predominant dosha鈥攚hether vata, pitta, or kapha鈥攁ffects everything from your personality to your sleep tendencies. There is also the concept of doshic hours, which assigns a predominant dosha to each hour of the day. Understanding which dosha is prominent at a particular hour allows you to optimize your well-being, from your morning routine to your nighttime rituals.

Depending on which doshic hour it is, your digestion may be stronger or weaker; you may have a greater (or lesser) capacity to tackle challenging tasks, your energy levels may peak or drop, you might see a difference in your creativity levels, and the quality of sleep can be affected.

This Is the Best Time to Sleep, According to Ancient Wisdom

According to Ayurvedic principles, the hours between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. are considered crucial for physiological rejuvenation and an ideal time for the body to be at sleep, and it is now proven by science. These hours are associated with the pitta dosha, whose inherent fire (a.k.a 鈥榟eating鈥�) quality aids in the metabolic processes necessary for detoxification, deep cellular repair, and rejuvenation during sleep.

鈥淚t鈥檚 best to be asleep around 10 p.m. so that pitta activity can be directed inward for detoxification and cellular digestion and metabolism,鈥� explains , a board-certified family physician and Ayurvedic expert. 鈥淚f not, we miss prime healing time.鈥�

Staying Up Too Late Reduces Sleep Quality

For example, sleeping between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. is considered more rejuvenating and vital to cellular repair and renewal than sleeping from 1 a.m. to 9 a.m. Even though the total hours of sleep are the same, the benefits are not.

Staying up late disrupts these vital processes and causes our bodies to rejuvenate inadequately, leading to increased anxiety, stress, and digestive issues.

How to Fall Asleep Early (Well, Earlier)

Falling asleep earlier than usual can seem like an almost impossible goal, especially if that means breaking a habit of late-night screen time, not consuming caffeine late in the day, or maneuvering around responsibilities that require you to stay up late, whether you鈥檙e a new parent or work the late shift. Ayurveda respects that. Everyone鈥檚 situation is unique.

However, if you would like to change the habit of staying up late, you can. 鈥淚f our body is used to falling asleep late, it is because we have trained it to do so,鈥� says Patel. 鈥淲e need to retrain it.鈥�

Patel suggests going to bed 15 to 30 minutes earlier every one to two weeks. Or you can take it more slowly if you like. The most effective approach to changing your sleep schedule is a gradual one. The body will adjust.

Try These Tips to Get to Bed Earlier

It becomes even easier to adhere to your new routine once you begin to notice a difference in your mood and mental state. Begin by establishing a relaxing evening routine, such as removing electronics from your bedroom and trying some gentle stretching or yin yoga. Then, try moving your bedtime earlier by 15 minutes each week.

Be patient with yourself if it takes longer. You鈥檒l find this makes the transition much more doable and long-lasting.

Sleeping Earlier Has Many Benefits

Most people find themselves more focused and less irritable during the day after just a few days of falling asleep earlier. By prioritizing an earlier bedtime and aligning with your biological rhythms, you unlock profound benefits. Even a small shift in your bedtime can unleash a cascade of these positive effects, including:

• Enhanced levels
• Elevated
• Increased
• Strengthened
• More restful

By aligning your sleep schedule with timeless Ayurvedic principles, you will discover more restorative sleep and a happier you.

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We know that sunscreen helps protect your skin from sun damage. That鈥檚 not news. But what about your lips? I鈥檝e personally never really thought to put some form of sun protection on my lips, because, like, why? I assume it would also just come off my lips anytime I absent-mindedly lick them, take a sip of water, or eat literally anything, or make out with my boyfriend.

Although our skin is highly flexible, mostly waterproof, and resilient, it鈥檚 still quite . Random paper cuts will remind you of this fact. The lips are even more delicate because lip skin is much thinner than the skin spanning the rest of your body. And lip sensitivity is heightened because our lips don鈥檛 naturally produce a type of oil to keep them lubricated, like sebum does for our skin.

Applying SPF to the lips will help limit repeated exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun. Excessive UV exposure can, in very rare cases ( of the United States population), lead to . This precancerous condition affects the lips, often causing them to appear patchy, inflamed, and feel sandpapery.

The best way to keep your lips protected all summer long is to slather them with SPF lip balm鈥攁nd be sure to . Here are some of our editors鈥� hand-picked聽favorites from least to most expensive.

1. Aquaphor Lip Protectant and Sunscreen Ointment SPF 30 ($4.76)

Certain sunny day products can (and probably should) be no-frills, which is why I鈥檓 a big fan of . This lip balm is a classic for a reason: it has a non-sticky formula that hydrates and heals while protecting. I keep this option on hand to layer over lip color or bare lips throughout the day, and the fact that it鈥檚 not at all precious means it comes everywhere, from backpacking trips to the beach. The fact that it’s odorless and tasteless is a big win, too. This balm also gets some bonus points for the fact that it can be used for after-suncare, too, as the vitamin E and shea butter serve to soothe dried-out chapped lips.

鈥擟alin Van Paris, editor, Yoga Journal

2. Burt鈥檚 Bees Coco Loco SPF 30 Lip Balm ($4.99)

I recently visited my nearby Wegman鈥檚 and bought . I went for a 2.3-mile run the next day and swiped it on my lips after applying my body sunscreen. I absolutely loved how it felt going on my lips. It was smooth, creamy, and felt, surprisingly, luxurious. The scent is lovely, too; it smells like a blend of vanilla and coconut. It lasted for the duration of my run, and I didn鈥檛 need to reapply. I noticed a slight buttery vanilla taste when I licked my lips post-application, but it disappeared about 30 seconds later. With a $4.99 price point, this will definitely be one of my go-to options. (I also did a water and paper towel test to showcase its staying power. Check it out in the video below.)

鈥擜yana Underwood, senior health editor, 国产吃瓜黑料

3. Sun Bum鈥檚 Lip 30 Moisturizing Sunscreen Lip Balm ($9.99)

We use a lot of Sun Bum鈥檚 products in my household: SPF 50 Face Cream? Check. Original SPF 50 Lotion? Check. And, as a mom of two little ones and a teen, I carry a in my diaper bag at all times. So, as a brand loyalist, obviously, I swear by the . It goes on clear, feels hydrating and soothing, and while it features SPF 30, it doesn鈥檛 feel cakey or chalky like many sunscreen lip balms do. The best part is its slight coconut smell.

鈥擜bigail Wise, brand director, 国产吃瓜黑料

4. Coola鈥檚 Organic Liplux Classic Sunscreen Lip Balm ($12)

One of my favorite ways to protect my lips is with . It has an SPF of 30 and is water-resistant for up to two hours before it needs to be reapplied. It is completely natural, with cupuacu butter, raspberry, and jojoba seed oil added in for moisture. I found this lip balm because I鈥檓 a huge fan of , my favorite natural self-tanner, by far!

鈥擡milee Coblentz, packages editor, 国产吃瓜黑料

5. Primally Pure鈥檚 Sun Lip Balm SPF 15 ($14)

Primally Pure has a killer product for summer lip care. The brand’s has an SPF of 15, but also includes an advanced non-nano zinc oxide shield that protects the lips from both UVA and UVB rays. Its ingredient list includes: tallow, beeswax, and mango butter to provide deep moisture. I love Primally Pure, especially this product, which is a must for long days kayaking on the lake.

鈥擡milee Coblentz, packages editor, 国产吃瓜黑料

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Beauty industry buzzwords come with contradictions. If you prefer to invest in products that are safe for both your body and the Earth, you鈥檙e likely already aware of this conundrum. Descriptors like 鈥渘atural鈥� and 鈥渟ustainable鈥濃�攁long with 鈥渃lean,鈥� 鈥済reen,鈥� and others鈥攕trive to communicate a company鈥檚 commitment to prioritizing your health and that of the planet. But finding products that are both natural and sustainable is a difficult feat鈥攁s is defining the labels themselves.

鈥淭here are still lots of myths in the industry that endure despite us having access to more information,鈥� says Ana Green, Education Manager at , an online institute for organic beauty product formulation. She and CEO Lorraine Dallmeier dive into this gray area on the brand鈥檚 podcast, . 鈥淚 think there鈥檚 a lot of confusion about both natural and sustainable beauty and what those things are.鈥�

Green notes that because a focus on natural beauty arose before the discourse around sustainability, there is a common perception that natural beauty products are always sustainable. Spoiler alert: This is not always the case.

What Do the Terms ‘Natural’ and ‘Sustainable’ Even Mean?

鈥淪ince the rise of clean beauty, there have been many definitions of natural and sustainable,鈥� says Jenefer Palmer, founder of the skin and body care company . 鈥淭he truth is, there is not one consensus definition of either within the cosmetics industry.鈥�

Natural Versus Sustainable Beauty Products

Although “natural” and “sustainable” are seemingly linked concepts, they鈥檙e not synonymous.

• Natural: 鈥淣atural鈥� tends to describe products that rely predominantly on materials derived from nature (such as plants and minerals) rather than synthetic (i.e., chemically synthesized and human-made) ingredients.
• Sustainable: Products labeled 鈥渟ustainable鈥� claim to put the planet first and feature formulations that cause the least possible detriment to the environment.

Natural and Sustainable Don’t Automatically Mean Safe for Humans

Neither term is regulated, making misuse and misunderstanding inevitable. Kaley Beins,听a senior scientist in toxicology at the聽, explains that the lack of legal enforceability surrounding the claims means that companies can define them as聽they choose. 鈥淎dditionally, neither of these terms address human health and safety. Just because an ingredient is naturally derived or manufactured in a sustainable way doesn鈥檛 necessarily mean it is safe,鈥� she says.

Allison Audrey Weldon, CEO and founder of the home, hair, and skincare brand , explains that transparency around sourcing is an essential first step.聽鈥淪imply knowing where exactly the ingredient comes from and how it鈥檚 made helps with accountability. However, it does bring up more questions about sustainability.鈥�

鈥淭he complexity of sustainability as a topic makes the perception of both natural and sustainable difficult,鈥� says Green. She explains that brands and consumers tend to focus on select areas that are meaningful to them rather than 鈥渢he bigger picture of sourcing, long-term sustainability, and ensuring the preservation of natural resources.鈥�

Examples of Natural and Sustainable Products

Some natural ingredients are less sustainable than their synthetic counterparts due to factors such as overharvesting and extraction, transportation across thousands of miles, and borne by the necessary processing. However, when you consider the entire life cycle of the ingredient, some natural options become the more sustainable choice.

Lavender

Weldon shares an example of the numerous contradictions within the space. She uses locally grown and distilled lavender in many of her products, believing it to be more sustainable than many synthetic alternatives for both fragrance and skin health. 鈥淣ot only does it support a local farm and industry, but it doesn鈥檛 travel far, is healthy for humans, and it鈥檚 biodegradable,鈥� she says. In this case, the natural ingredient serves as both a sustainable and natural one.

Rose Otto Oil

Then there鈥檚 Rose Otto oil, a popular ingredient in both the fragrance and skincare spaces. 鈥淩ose Otto oil comes from Bulgaria and requires masses of rose petals to create one drop,鈥� says Weldon. This environmental impact could make creating a synthetic version more sustainable.

But it鈥檚 not a zero-sum equation. 鈥淲hen that Rose Otto oil is washed off in the shower and goes into the ocean, its biodegradable nature may redeem the ingredient in comparison to the manufacturing and life cycle of a synthetic alternative.鈥�

We Need Products That Are Both Good for Us and for the Planet

Many beauty brands that favor naturally derived ingredients do so for their purported efficacy. 鈥淲hether it鈥檚 , anti-bacterial agents, vitamins and/or minerals, or essential , having the actives come from a natural source is a pure, effective way to correct, protect, and prevent the issues people are dealing with,鈥� says Serina Godin, chief product officer of skincare brand .

In an era plagued by and , the rationale for prioritizing sustainability by protecting the planet and preserving the natural world is self-evident. 鈥淲e love and respect the plant kingdom and want to give more than we take,鈥� says CEO of Britany LeBlanc. 鈥淎s over-harvesting limits supply or impacts natural environments, we are seeking other ways to leverage upcycled ingredients and sustainable sourcing.鈥�

Creating products that are mindful in a holistic sense鈥攇ood for you and the planet鈥攊s an undertaking that isn鈥檛 always possible in our current consumer landscape…yet.

What Does the Future of Mindful Beauty Look Like?

Although manufacturing and purchasing less is the most sustainable route available in terms of skincare and cosmetics, there are more brands than ever before working to better align the industry鈥檚, at times, disparate goals.

鈥淲e believe that natural and sustainable must go hand-in-hand,鈥� says Godin, citing initiatives like regenerative farming and wild harvesting as examples of ongoing efforts. For its part, hair care company (a branch of the ) has partnered with the , a non-profit organization dedicated to regenerative organic agriculture, in an effort to innovate and cultivate processes that enhance soil health and regeneration.

For Sonia Ziveri, Chief Sustainability Officer for the Davines Group, collaboration is the key to creating meaningful change. 鈥淚 believe that enduring, positive change can only happen when an increasing number of public and private entities, as well as individual citizens, come together to work toward a common goal.鈥�

So, whether you鈥檙e shopping for products for a new skincare routine or evaluating your current collection, when you encounter either descriptor, question it. And then research it. You鈥檒l either debunk a claim, discover a brand that鈥檚 doing the work, or (more likely) some hybrid of the two. You鈥檒l come away informed and ready to make a decision. After all, what is a mindful consumer if not a realist?

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If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline toll-free from anywhere in the U.S. at 1-800-273-8255.

Tangerine flames swirled as Gerry Ward sat fireside, deep in thought, with campfire crackles and wafts of ember taking his mind far beyond the Scottish Highland surroundings. It鈥檚 a scene many of us know well: a starlit woodland evening spent cozied up around a fire ring. Yet for Ward, this solo backpacking trip beneath Scotland鈥檚 Cairngorms mountains was about more than stars and s鈥檓ores. Ward, now 56, had spent most of his adolescence and early adult years navigating deep-seated childhood trauma, which eventually led to issues like chronic anxiety and alcohol abuse. Solo treks through his native Scotland during the height of his struggles, his thirties, provided rare solace from stress, trauma, and depression. 鈥淚 was connecting with nature as a remedy to escape from all of that,鈥� he recalls.

When Ward became a father at age 42, he knew he had to get clean. 鈥淚 got professional help, but what helped me most of all was going back to nature,鈥� Ward says. For him, the fire-building process, from gathering raw materials to starting and then watching the blaze, was the most therapeutic part. 鈥淥nce the fire鈥檚 going, that鈥檚 when the real connection starts. The fire cracks, the smells鈥攊t goes back into our subconscious minds. We connect with our primeval brain, and that connection is a quarter of a million years old.鈥�

Ward spent every spare weekend for more than a decade navigating recovery via these solitary fireside meditations. After realizing how much it helped him, Ward invited a friend who was struggling to join, too. It turns out, campfire camaraderie was what they both needed. 鈥淲hen you get two people around the fire, the inevitable happens: you start talking,鈥� he says. 鈥淲e were sharing things we would never normally share, like deep-rooted trauma. By just talking about something, you鈥檙e breaking the power it has over you.鈥�

Since 2021, Ward has been using the healing benefits of fire to help those struggling with mental health challenges and addiction through his Scotland-based nonprofit, . He runs monthly retreats in Scotland鈥檚 great outdoors that harness the healing power of campfires. He鈥檚 not the only one tapping into fire鈥檚 therapeutic effects.

As the popularity of eco- and adventure-therapy grows, so, too, does the role of campfires. 鈥淔ire, like the other natural elements, has the ability to help someone be more comfortable in the discomfort of change processes like therapy,鈥� says Brian Strozewski, a certified clinical adventure therapist and founder of Ohio-based .

Campfire therapy is simple: the idea is to use the fire ring鈥檚 healing and soothing benefits to help people open up while navigating trauma. in the journal Evolutionary Psychology suggested that fireside sitting can decrease blood pressure, foster relaxation, and improve social interactions. Counselors and organizations around the world have watched these results unfold before their eyes.

鈥淪itting around campfires, being around likeminded individuals who have gone through similar trauma experiences, then having the opportunity to talk in a safe environment about your trauma鈥攖hose are all healing things,鈥� says combat-wounded Marine Corporal of U.S.-based , a nonprofit that uses eco-therapy and specialized care to help post-9/11 veterans improve mental and physical health.

It鈥檚 a critical need; suicide is the second-leading cause of all post-9/11 veteran deaths.

The White Heart Foundation hosts eco-adventure therapy retreats to help veterans and first responders cope with trauma and psychological stressors from the frontline. The trips, run among the pines and peaks of Wyoming, Utah, Oregon, and Colorado, fulfill participants鈥� adrenaline needs with adventures like rock climbing and whitewater rafting. 鈥淭he healing comes when people sit around the fire,鈥� Morgan says.

Fireside sharing is peer-led. Veteran mentors, such as Morgan, a Purple Heart recipient who lost his legs during an IED accident in Afghanistan, start with their own personal stories. 鈥淲e鈥檝e had groups with people extremely closed off, they hardly say a single word during the first couple of days of the trip,鈥� says Morgan. 鈥淏y the end, they鈥檙e sharing their story with everyone. It鈥檚 an amazing transformation.鈥�

As , sharing feelings, especially putting negative emotions and experiences into words, is an important step toward recovery and improved mental health. Ward says the fire provides a safe, less vulnerable place to open up.

鈥淭hey鈥檙e not speaking to me, or anyone in particular. They鈥檙e speaking to the fire,鈥� he says. 鈥淚鈥檝e watched someone do an entire share of 45 minutes, and blink two or three times [without looking] at an individual. That鈥檚 the start of the healing process.鈥�

Let鈥檚 be very clear: Fireside sharing, or really any sort of therapeutic nature experiences, is only one part of a more extensive therapy program. 鈥淪itting by a campfire is not a magical fix to the issues,鈥� says Morgan, noting many veteran participants have seen, or continue to see, therapists or counselors. 鈥淚 believe [campfire sharing] is a helpful gateway for individuals to realize they need professional help.鈥�

Some therapists, including Strozewski, use natural elements, such as forests and campfires, to aid their sessions. 鈥淚 connect with nature as more of a co-regulator, almost like a friend or partner who is present to help the person be regulated, to feel safe, and to have internal balance,鈥� he says. And, just like, say, rock climbing, isn鈥檛 for everyone, Strozewski notes that fireside chatting isn鈥檛 always the right call. 鈥淚t鈥檚 important to consider someone鈥檚 existing relationship with fire.鈥�

One reason Strozewski says campfires work well with nature therapy is that they鈥檙e a symbol of letting go. 鈥淟etting go of the pains and learning what that process is like is necessary so we aren鈥檛 tethered [to negative emotions],鈥� he says. 鈥淲e can move forward to what鈥檚 next.鈥�

For years, certified therapeutic recreation specialist Kevin Gruzewski watched this release firsthand. He ran at a residential facility for teenage boys undergoing drug rehabilitation and mental health recovery in Chicago, Illinois. During these sessions, the teens jotted down their regrets, gathered by a fire, and tossed the papers into the flames. After experiencing the fire鈥檚 therapeutic effects, they enjoyed the lighthearted fun many associate with campfire hangouts: talking, joking, playing games, and sharing s鈥檓ores.

鈥淢ost of them were from the inner city; they hadn鈥檛 experienced a bonfire or being in nature,鈥� Gruzewski says. 鈥淪ome of the boys did or dealt with pretty rough things, so you could tell some of them liked that feeling of letting go, even just for that moment.鈥�

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Siri Lindley had done it all鈥攕he had become the number one triathlete in the world, built a successful career coaching Olympians, and was happily living with her wife Rebekah in Colorado. But in 2019, she was diagnosed with a form of leukemia that had a less-than-ten percent survival rate. Her world was turned upside down. In the months that followed, Lindley fought for her life. There were times when she was terrified she wouldn鈥檛 make it, but through it all, spending time with her rescue horse, Savannah, reminded her how to overcome, love, and heal. Siri and Rebekah now run two non-profit organizations that rescue horses from slaughter and abuse. To date, she has saved 343 horses.

Here鈥檚 her story as told to writer Julia Ries.

When I rescued my horse, Savannah, I had never owned or ridden a horse before. But over the previous years, I鈥檇 gotten to know one, named Giselle, near my home. I would walk my dogs near her pasture, and interacting with Giselle always left me so calm and at peace. The experience made me want a horse of my own one day.

So, in 2016, I decided to visit the to see a 23-year-old horse named Calypso, who was barely able to move. When I arrived, I met the head trainer, Sarah, who recognized me as a world champion triathlete. I told her I wanted to meet Calypso, and she said, 鈥淐alypso is not the right horse for you. I have another one who鈥檚 perfect.鈥�

She took me to meet Savannah, a horse that was much bigger than Calypso and only six years old. Savannah completely ignored me, but there was something about her.

鈥淲hy do you think she鈥檚 the horse for me?鈥� I asked. Sarah shrugged and said, 鈥淚 just need you to trust me.鈥� So, I did.

It wasn鈥檛 until after I adopted Savannah that I learned she had been nicknamed 鈥淭he Trainer Killer鈥� because no one could control her. But Sarah saw potential in me. She knew that, as a triathlete, I didn鈥檛 give up easily鈥攁nd figured I could handle a horse like Savannah. She believed in me more than I believed in myself at the time. And she was right.

I started working with Sarah, and she taught me how to train and ride Savannah. Horses are incredibly sensitive to energy, body language, and intention. I learned how to influence Savannah鈥檚 movement without ever touching her or using force. By shifting my position, I could ask her to move forward. Every step I took, every shift in my posture, the speed and rhythm of my movement鈥攊t all communicated something. I was amazed that I could lead this 1,500-pound, magnificent, and powerful animal with such subtle cues. Over time, Savannah started to look to me for direction, reassurance, and connection.

Before I met Savannah, I was terrified of heights, but I overcame that to ride her. It was one of the scariest鈥攂ut most rewarding and beautiful鈥攖hings I鈥檝e ever done. I eventually built a barn and rescued over 30 horses from neglect and abuse. (The video below captures the bond between me and my sweet girl. Yes, she really does love apples that much.)

Life was good鈥攗ntil 2019. I had been feeling very fatigued and achy, but I had just turned 50 and chalked it up to age. Then I went in for some routine bloodwork ahead of a hip replacement. The results were abnormal. The doctor quickly scheduled me for a bone marrow biopsy and a panel of other tests. A week later, I was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, or AML. I was told I had a less-than-ten聽percent聽chance of survival. It doesn鈥檛 get any more serious than that, but I was determined to fight.

Back in 1993, I decided I wanted to be the best triathlete in the world, even though I didn鈥檛 know how to swim. It was ridiculous, and people laughed at me. I had recently realized I was gay, and my dad subsequently cut me out of his life. I felt worthless, unlovable, and undeserving of success and happiness. I pulled myself out of that hole of despair and was determined to prove to myself鈥攁nd everyone else鈥攖hat I could do something extraordinary. I thought: If I could go to the Olympics or win a World Championship, I would be worthy of love. (That wasn鈥檛 great self-talk, but I鈥檝e since forgiven myself for being so critical.) I began training and competing, and eight years later, I became a world champion.

In 2003, I retired at number one in the world and poured all my energy into coaching other athletes. In doing that, I lost part of myself. I was so focused on helping others that I forgot about my own strength and confidence. I felt like my achievements were far in the past. Without them, I wasn鈥檛 sure who I was anymore. Then Savannah showed up. Working with her reminded me that I can do hard things, work through my fears, and overcome any challenge. Because of Savannah, I felt equipped to do whatever I possibly could to conquer this disease.

So, I enrolled in 鈥攖he first would use medications to wipe out the cancer cells; the second was a transplant鈥攁nd immediately started treatment. I did a week of intensive chemotherapy and radiation, then went back to my house in Boulder, Colorado, for a couple of months, where I continued to take medication to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. I was scared all the time. But when I was outside with my horses, the fear dissipated. Out in the pasture, I had the strength to tell myself: You can do this.

Day by day, I fought to keep a grip on hope. And over a span of two months, the cancer stopped spreading. For the first time in months, I let myself believe I might live.

Once I completed the medication protocol, it was time for me to enter the second clinical trial in which I would receive a bone marrow transplant, a type of stem cell transplant that replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy tissue capable of producing cancer-free blood cells. The procedure and subsequent treatment would take weeks. I knew there was a chance, however, that things might go downhill, and that this could be the last time I came home.

Before I left, I rode Savannah around the property. I felt like she believed she was going to see me again. After that ride, I felt ready. I thought: it鈥檚 time to fight.

I went to the hospital a week before the procedure for a massive chemotherapy and radiation session. The doctors had to basically bomb my system and wipe out everything before they could do a bone marrow transplant. Then I had the transplant, which was a success. After that, I was required to stay near the hospital for ongoing treatment and tests.

That period was one of the most difficult I鈥檝e ever been through. There were days when I threw up sixty times and felt like I was dying. I lost 25 pounds. I also started to feel depressed. I hated knowing that my horses and ranch were 45 minutes away. It was brutal. But as the weeks went on, my symptoms eased, and I slowly got better. I pleaded with my doctors to let me go home, and they eventually did.

When I returned home, I was still so weak, but I got out of the car and walked right to Savannah. It was raining, and even though she hates being wet, she ran to me. She let me kiss her all over. I was completely overcome with joy and relief. For so long, I didn鈥檛 have her. I needed her, and there she was. It was then that I knew I was going to be OK.

After that, all I wanted to do was ride her. My wife chided me, 鈥淪iri, you have been fighting for your life鈥攜ou can鈥檛 ride her in your condition.鈥� She was terrified, and understandably so; Savannah is the kind of horse that takes off before your feet are in the stirrups. But I got on Savannah anyway. This time, she let me put my feet in the stirrups. That was new. Then, she took tiny, careful steps. We barely moved. Again, she knew exactly what I needed. I started crying tears of joy.

This is the thing about horses鈥攖hey meet you where you鈥檙e at. They can sense what you can and can鈥檛 do. After that, I rode her once a week as I continued with my treatment. We would go so slowly that we鈥檇 only cover about 80 feet in half an hour.

One day, a few months after the transplant, I got on her and she was suddenly back to her old ways鈥攕he took off before my feet were in the stirrups. I finally got her to stop. 鈥淪avannah!鈥� I shouted, 鈥淲hat are you doing? I鈥檓 weak and I鈥檓 sick!鈥� I didn鈥檛 understand why she was being so rough with me. I was furious. A few days later, I got the call from my doctor that I was cancer-free.

That鈥檚 when I realized鈥擲avannah knew before anyone else. She was saying: Mom, you鈥檙e no longer a patient. It鈥檚 time to live again.

A new film, , takes viewers on an emotional trip through Siri Lindley’s life. In it, she and her athlete friends and family members get candid about her journey to becoming the number one triathlete in the world, how she came to terms with her sexual orientation, and her resilience in the face of a cancer diagnosis. Tri Me premieres this year. Follow for more updates.

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It鈥檚 easy to think Yellowstone National Park is all geysers and grizzlies. But for anglers, the park鈥檚 native cutthroat trout belong at the top of the to-do list. Just ask Austin Campbell. Fly-fishing transformed Campbell鈥檚 life, and now the angling guide and advocate loves to share his enthusiasm for visiting and protecting places like Yellowstone.

Campbell grew up fly-fishing with his family, but when he moved east to run track and attend college at Penn State, angling took on a whole new meaning. Whenever the stresses of track or classes began to build, Pennsylvania鈥檚 cold-water trout streams provided refuge.

鈥淭hat was huge for me,鈥� Campbell says. After he graduated, Campbell realized he wasn鈥檛 the only one who could benefit from such an escape, so he became a . And in 2020, he and his brother started running free community events to teach other folks how to fish. So far, he says that鈥檚 been the most rewarding aspect of his whole fishing journey. 鈥淚nstructing people and watching them succeed鈥攊t鈥檚 just as good as if I鈥檇 caught the fish myself,鈥� Campbell says. 鈥淔ishing allows you to really slow down and be present. That time is so important, and I think that鈥檚 something everyone should have access to.鈥滳ampbell found plenty of places to slow down in Yellowstone National Park. While catch-and-release fishing for the park鈥檚 cutthroat trout, he also learned about efforts to protect them. Learn more in the video above, and see below to start planning your own fly-fishing adventure.

Where to Drop a Line

Slough Creek

Cast a dry fly on the meandering bends of Slough Creek, one of Yellowstone鈥檚 most productive cutthroat fisheries. Target the upper meadows for better odds; the farther upstream you hike, the less pressured the fisheries tend to be.

‍Yellowstone River

The lifeblood of the park, the Yellowstone River offers more than 200 miles of high-quality trout fishing鈥攁nd some of the wildest water in Montana. For the easiest access, fish the stretch between Yellowstone Lake and Yellowstone Falls. Lake trout are abundant here, but patient anglers can still bag a decent-size cutthroat.

‍Lamar River

Welcome to one of the park鈥檚 most scenic fisheries. Along the Lamar River, the meadows teem with bison and the wide-open skies yield uninterrupted views of the surrounding peaks. Target the seven-mile reach between Soda Butte Creek and Lamar Canyon for the easiest access (and biggest fish).

‍Snake River

Accessible from Yellowstone鈥檚 South Entrance, the Snake River starts within the national park before flowing south toward the Tetons. Head to the upper zone for solitude and quiet waters and the lower reaches for bigger cutthroats (and even some browns). Do it right: Pack a small flask of to toast to the day鈥檚 catch.

Raise a Toast: Streamside Sipper

Celebrate a great day in the national park with this custom recipe and , which was founded in 1872 to honor America鈥檚 first national park, and which continues to the national park system today.

Glassware: Rocks glass

‍Ingredients

• 2 oz Yellowstone Bourbon Toasted
• 4 oz chilled black tea
• 1/2 oz maple syrup
• Cinnamon stick for garnish

‍Directions

• ‍Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Combine all ingredients and shake until chilled.
• Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.

Established in 1872, was crafted to honor the sprawling wonder of America鈥檚 first national park. It鈥檚 what first inspired us to create approachably smooth whiskey for the benefit and enjoyment of the people, and why we still do it today.

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