Category: Mental & Emotional Wellness

Mindfulness, stress management, and personal growth.

  • The Sacred Covenant: Trusting Your Body as an Ally

    The Sacred Covenant: Trusting Your Body as an Ally

    I’ve been practicing yoga for years—nearly two decades now—but I still remember my very first attempt like it was yesterday. At the time, I was living in what can only be described as a crapshack (yes, really). We had dreams of restoring it, but honestly, it would have benefited more from a gas can and a match. My “yoga studio”? A bedroom with a cement floor. And was I trusting my body as an ally? Not likely.

    But one day, on a whim, I picked up a yoga CD (yep, a CD—we’re talking old school) from Costco. It came with a deck of cards, each featuring a stick figure demonstrating a pose. So, I laid them out in sequence, pressed play, and hoped for the best.

    You can sometimes get this on Amazon…it’s where my yoga journey began. SO SO GOOD!

    A surprising alliance

    And you know what? Those awkward, tentative first movements sparked something in me. At the time, I saw my body as an enemy, something that had betrayed me, thrusting me into the depths of an autoimmune condition, marked by morbid obesity, chronic pain, and unrelenting, constant fatigue. Even walking to the mailbox felt like a challenge (we won’t talk about stairs). But yoga met me where I was. It adapted to me—not the other way around. And in that body that seemed to be waging war against me, yoga was the first thing that made me feel empowered. Strong. Maybe even a little sexy. Yoga waved the white flag and started the peace talks, then wrote the treaty that brought us into an alliance.

    Fast forward nearly 20 years, and I’m still practicing…but I’ve since graduated from the stick figures! Now, I belong to a vibrant online yoga community where we grow—not just physically, but spiritually and emotionally. And one of the themes we return to again and again is trusting the wisdom of our body.

    Just today, I flowed through a hatha practice designed to regulate the nervous system by opening the hips, and wouldn’t you know? The underlying message of the class was exactly that—trust your body.

    But here’s the thing: Trusting your body is easier said than done.

    Because what happens when your body doesn’t look or behave the way you think it should? When healing feels like two steps forward, one step back? When you’re tempted to hand over your authority to diet culture, wellness trends, or someone else’s definition of health?

    I found myself asking today: What does it really mean to trust my body?
    Or, for that matter, to trust anything at all?

    Let’s dive in.


    Trust: A Sacred Covenant With Yourself

    In a world brimming with quick fixes, trending diets, and “hacks” for everything, we often overlook the most profound relationship we have—the one with our own body.

    This isn’t just about self-care Sundays or green smoothies. Don’t get me wrong, I love self-care Sundays and smoothies of all sorts! But the relationship you create with your body is about something much deeper—a sacred covenant with yourself. It’s a commitment rooted in respect, awareness, and unwavering trust. This kind of commitment is not commonly seen anymore; so much so that we have to ask, what exactly is a covenant?

    A covenant isn’t just a promise, but a sacred, unbreakable commitment. Unlike the fleeting, half-hearted agreements we see today, a covenant is woven with intention, trust, and unwavering devotion. It’s not about convenience; it’s about deep alignment, a vow that holds weight even when tested. When we say, “I trust my body,” we’re not just hoping it won’t fail us—we’re committing to honor, listen, and stand by it, no matter what.

    So with that said, now it’s time to geek out!

    The Ancient Roots of Trust

    The word trust traces back to the Old Norse traust, meaning “confidence, protection, support.” Across cultures and centuries, trust has been the foundation of relationships, spiritual teachings, and personal growth. But beyond its social and philosophical significance, trust has always been a bodily experience—a dialogue between mind, body, and spirit.

    • Ancient Greek philosophy linked health to the balance of the four humors.
    • Ayurveda views the body as a sacred vessel (Sharira), urging us to listen to its natural rhythms.
    • Indigenous wisdom teaches that well-being is inseparable from our connection to nature and the world around us.

    In other words, trusting the body isn’t a new idea—we’ve just forgotten how to listen.


    The Modern Dilemma: Have We Forgotten to Listen?

    Fast forward to today, and the noise is deafening. Wellness trends scream at us from every direction, promising the real secret to health. We outsource our trust:

    • We let apps tell us when we’re hungry.
    • We rely on trackers to dictate when we’ve moved “enough.”
    • We chase external validation instead of internal knowing.

    And in the process, we lose touch with our own wisdom.

    But what if the answers have always been within?


    The Covenant of Trust: Reclaiming Your Inner Wisdom

    When we say, “I trust my body,” it’s not just a passive statement—it’s a living covenant.

    To trust your body means:

    • Listening to its whispers before they become screams.
    • Honoring hunger, rest, movement, and emotions without judgment.
    • Recognizing that your body holds ancestral wisdom, encoded in every cell.

    But remember, this isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about partnership. You and your body are on the same team.


    Creating an Environment Where Your Body Thrives

    Trusting your body isn’t just about mindset—it’s about how you show up for yourself. Your body’s ability to heal and thrive depends on the conditions you create.

    A man asked a gardener why his plants grew so beautifully. The gardener said, “I don’t force them to grow; I just remove what stops them.”

    A Few Ways to Honor Your Covenant:

    🌿 Nourishment: Fueling yourself not with highly processed convenience, designed to trick your taste buds into addiction, but with whole, vibrant foods that support your unique needs.
    💧 Hydration: Drinking pure, clean water to help your body function smoothly, optimally, and also engage in autonomous self-healing.
    🧘‍♀️ Movement: Choosing activities that stretch, strengthen, and inspire, but not as punishment; rather, as an expression of vitality.

    Read more about my own journey into trusting my body, intuitive eating, and natural healing.


    Trusting Your Body: A Powerful Daily Affirmation

    If trusting your body feels hard, start here. Breathe. Read this slowly. Let it settle into your bones.

    🌿 I stand in sacred covenant with my body.
    🌿 I honor its wisdom, listen to its whispers, and trust its signals.
    🌿 My breath is a bridge to its truth, my heartbeat a rhythm of connection.
    🌿 I release fear and doubt, embracing the divine intelligence woven into every cell.
    🌿 I cultivate an environment where my body can thrive—nourishing it with whole, vibrant foods, pure and clean water, and movement that stretches, strengthens, and inspires.
    🌿 I am both steward and companion, walking this path with gratitude, respect, and unwavering trust.
    🌿 My body is my ally, my sanctuary, and my guide. Together, we thrive.

    DOWNLOAD A PRINTABLE COPY OF THIS AFFIRMATION


    Your Wild Truth

    You don’t need to earn your body’s trust.

    It has always been there—waiting for you to remember.

    This sacred covenant is your birthright. Reclaim it, nurture it, and watch as your wild, radiant self thrives.

    So tell me, Wild One—what’s one way you can start trusting your body and honoring your body’s wisdom today? Drop it in the comments. I’d love to hear. 💚


    🌿Stay wild and connected! Subscribe to the Wild Squatch Weekly Digest for weekly wellness tips, rituals, and wisdom delivered straight to your inbox.

  • SASQUATCH MEDICINE #1 – It’s Okay to Walk Away

    SASQUATCH MEDICINE #1 – It’s Okay to Walk Away


    It’s okay to walk away. That’s not what I’ve always understood, but I’m there now.

    As much as I love Hazel and her adventures in the Wild Squatch Forest, Bigfoot lore stretches far beyond the tales I’ve spun since November 2024, and even before the “first” Bigfoot print, found in California, hit the news in the 1950s. It reaches back thousands of years, etched into cave walls, carved into ancient stones, and woven into the campfire stories of Indigenous people across the globe. My love for storytelling isn’t new, and neither is the timeless wisdom embedded in these ancient myths. The lessons they carried then still resonate now, echoing through generations with truths that refuse to be forgotten.

    This post marks the beginning of an ongoing series, where I will share the wisdom I’ve gathered during several years of researching Bigfoot across the United States. I never equated “Bigfoot” with “wisdom” when this journey began, but I’ve since been proven wonderfully wrong. That very phenomenon—finding profound lessons hidden within the lore, the legends, and the reality —is part of what brought Wild Squatch Wellness to life.

    The Wisdom of Bagwajanini

    Once upon a time, when European fur trappers discovered the rich resources of the Great Lakes, Bagwajanini—the woodland wild man—noticed how curious his little brothers were about these newcomers. Being older and wiser, he cautioned the eldest among them:

    “These newcomers will bring only ruin. They will rob you of your homes and food and leave you naked and cold. Do not engage with them.”

    But the eldest replied, “They have beads and blankets, coffee and tobacco. We want to trade with them.”

    Bagwajanini knew his little brothers lacked the foresight to see beyond the glittering allure of trade. With a heavy heart, he offered one final warning:

    “You may do as you will. But know this: if you choose to trade with them, I and mine will disappear into the mountains. You will never see us again.”

    And from that day to this, Bagwajanini and his people have remained hidden.

    This is my favorite Bigfoot myth. It struck a chord in me the first time I heard it, and its resonance has never faded. It speaks to a deep, wild truth about knowing when to walk away.

    The Courage to Change

    I’ve been reflecting on this story within the context of my own life. I’ve never been one to stick with things for long—careers, social circles, hobbies. Some call it inconsistency; others say I burn out quickly. My favorite description? A rebellious backslider. But here’s the thing: whenever I’ve walked away, it’s been because something no longer served me.

    Like Bagwajanini, I’ve learned to recognize when it’s time to disappear into the metaphorical mountains. No hesitation. No guilt.

    If I am willing to walk away from what doesn’t serve me, that must mean I am worthy of being served.

    That thought rocked me. Growing up, I was taught that my purpose was to serve others, not myself. Seeking my own well-being felt selfish, even idolatrous. But if you look at nature, everything serves itself. Survival and growth require eliminating what no longer aligns with that purpose.

    Read more about how I walked away in From Stressed to Squatched!

    Embracing Sovereignty

    It’s hard to walk away from deeply embedded structures and identities. Doing so forces us to learn new ways of living, to find value on our own terms. Transitioning from being a servant to being sovereign is terrifying. There’s no safety net, and the only person responsible for your life is you.

    But here’s the wild truth: It’s okay to walk away from what no longer serves you. In fact, it’s essential for growth. Holding on to what harms us stifles our evolution.

    You are worthy of walking away.

    You are worthy of creating a life that serves your highest good.

    Say it out loud, let it echo in your mind and heart: I AM WORTHY.

    LET IT GO

    Let go of the ways you thought life would unfold:
    the holding of plans or dreams or expectations – Let it all go.
    Save your strength to swim with the tide.
    The choice to fight what is here before you now will
    only result in struggle, fear, and desperate attempts
    to flee from the very energy you long for. Let go.
    Let it all go and flow with the grace that washes
    through your days whether you received it gently
    or with all your quills raised to defend against invaders.
    Take this on faith; the mind may never find the
    explanations that it seeks, but you will move forward
    nonetheless. Let go, and the wave’s crest will carry
    you to unknown shores, beyond your wildest dreams
    or destinations. Let it all go and find the place of
    rest and peace, and certain transformation.

    Danna Faulds

    This poem speaks to the heart of it. Walking away isn’t about giving up, or giving in, or disappointing others—it’s about honoring the wisdom of the wild, the wisdom embedded deep within yourself, knowing when to release control, and trusting that the unknown holds something better than we can imagine. When we stop resisting and let go, we allow transformation to find us.

    A Wild Truth to Reflect On: It’s Okay to Walk Away

    Sometimes, the wisest choice is to walk away. Let me repeat: It’s okay to walk away. Like the legendary Bagwajanini, we don’t have to stay where we are not honored, heard, or aligned. Trust your instincts and take the path that leads to your wild truth.

    What are you holding onto that no longer serves you? What would it feel like to let it go?

    Embrace the wisdom of Bagwajanini. Let the past stay in the past, step into your wild truth, and trust in the journey ahead.

    Discover Your Wild Truth

    If this story resonates with you, and you’re curious about what kind of wild wisdom lives within you, take the Bigfoot Archetype Quiz! Discover which Bigfoot archetype mirrors your path—are you a Grounded Guardian, a Mindful Mystic, or perhaps a Reflective Wanderer? It’s a fun, insightful way to connect with your own wild truth.

    How does that feel? Let me know. I’d love to hear your reflections.

    Stay wild, stay free, and most importantly, stay Squatchy.

    Bonus: Meet Hazel and the Wild Squatches

    Since we’ve mentioned Hazel’s adventures, I’d love to share her story with you! Download Where the Wild Squatches Are—the first tale that brings Hazel’s journey to life in the Wild Squatch Forest. It’s a whimsical, heartfelt story about discovering new paths, embracing the unknown, and finding your wild truth. Click the picture to download the story today!

  • Steeping Stillness: Sipping Your Way into Healing and Balance

    Steeping Stillness: Sipping Your Way into Healing and Balance

    Somewhere between skipping over brooks with Sassy and trying to match Thorne’s long strides through the Wild Squatch Forest, Hazel felt it—the creeping weight of the world outside. Her thoughts raced to the notifications, to-do lists, and emails piling up, and a wave of exhaustion swept over her. Her stomach twisted, her heart pounded, and the anxious voice in her head screamed, “You’re wasting time! There’s so much to do!”

    As if sensing her distress, Lady Bigfoot glided into the clearing, her presence as calming as the forest itself. She held out a hand. “Tea time, dear!” Her voice, rich and sweet as raw honey, carried a motherly warmth that Hazel instinctively leaned into. On the tree-stump-turned-table sat a steaming pot and two earthen mugs. Hazel sank onto the soft loam and watched as Lady Bigfoot poured the fragrant tea.

    Tea Rituals: More than Medicine 🍵

    Modern lifestyles leave most of us in a state of both physical and mental dis-ease. Our nervous and hormonal systems, constantly battered by stress and malnutrition, struggle to keep us balanced. This chronic disruption leads to fatigue, anxiety, and burnout.

    But the path to healing isn’t just about what we consume—it’s also about how we consume it. This is where the ritual of tea shines. Science shows that intentional pauses during the day—let’s call them “micro-rests”—can lower cortisol levels, calm the nervous system, and even improve digestion. Pair this with medicinal herbs, and you create a double-layered approach to wellness.

    Coffee vs. Tea: Both Beloved, But Different ☕🍵

    Let’s be honest—many of us are deeply devoted to coffee (myself included). It’s energizing, delicious, and even boasts health benefits. But coffee often keeps us in “go mode”—fueling productivity rather than promoting mindfulness.

    Tea, on the other hand, invites us to slow down. Its preparation asks for patience, and its warmth encourages a pause. While coffee revs us up, tea reminds us to rest. Both have their place, but if balance and restoration are what you seek, tea—paired with intentional rituals—creates the perfect micro-rest to reset your body and mind.

    Reflection: Finding Balance in Stillness 🌿

    Let’s go back to 2020, when the world seemed to come to a screeching halt. With calendars cleared and endless tasks paused, many of us were left wondering what to do with the sudden stillness. For some, it became a time to catch up on rest—rediscovering naps and slow mornings. For others, it revealed where life had grown unbalanced and demanded change.

    That season was a turning point for Scot and me. With time to reflect, we prioritized our health, reshaped our routines, and reimagined what work-life balance could look like. Out of that pause came the foundation for Squatch America and the intentional, grounded life we lead today. Without that forced slowdown, we wouldn’t be here, living this dream—and we wouldn’t trade it for all the “tea in China.”

    Quote by Jonathan Stroud: ‘Making tea is a ritual that stops the world from falling in on you.
    Making tea is a ritual that stops the world from falling in on you.’ —Jonathan Stroud

    Slowing down isn’t just an indulgence; it’s a necessity. And while it’s safe to say that none of us want to repeat the events of 2020, simple rituals, like brewing and sipping tea, remind us to make space for that stillness every day.

    Tea Rituals: Powerful Micro-Rests for Healing 🌲

    In a world that often feels chaotic and demanding, tea rituals offer a rare opportunity to pause and restore. Think of them as invitations to breathe, to be present, and to listen to what your body truly needs.

    Brewing tea is more than a task—it’s an act of care. As the water heats and the leaves steep, your mind slows down. With each sip, your breath deepens, your heart steadies, and your nervous system begins to unwind. And it’s in that quiet space, however brief, that healing begins.

    So whether you’re steeping a calming blend to ease tension or sipping a balancing brew to find your center, let a simple tea ritual be your daily reminder that slowing down isn’t just an indulgence—it’s essential.

    Meet the Wild Squatch Wellness Teas 🌿

    Sassy Squatch Sereni-Tea and Lady Bigfoot Balancing Blend—herbal teas for calm, balance, and healing.
    Wild Squatch Wellness Teas—handcrafted herbal blends designed to calm nerves, balance hormones, and restore vitality

    Sassy Squatch’s Sereni-Tea – Crafted to soothe frazzled nerves and quiet a racing mind. Ingredients like chamomile and blue butterfly pea work synergistically to reduce anxiety and promote restful sleep.

    Lady Bigfoot’s Balancing Blend – Formulated to restore balance and vitality. Featuring lemon balm and holy basil, this blend supports hormonal health and resilience to stress.

    Both teas encourage the act of slowing down and reconnecting, promoting not just physical nourishment but mental clarity and emotional balance.

    An Invitation to Pause 🌎

    Incorporating tea rituals into your day is more than just brewing a beverage—it’s creating a sanctuary in your schedule. Whether you’re steeping a calming blend to quiet your thoughts or sipping hormonal balance tea to restore vitality, let each cup remind you that healing begins with slowing down.

    For five peaceful minutes, neither of them spoke. Hazel sipped, letting the warm elixir slide down her throat. Slowly, her stomach settled, her pulse slowed, and the noisy chatter in her mind faded into a whisper before disappearing altogether. Lady Bigfoot smiled. “You see?” she said. “Taking just this little bit of time—to brew, to pour, to sip, to savor—reminds us that this is all there is. And this,” she gestured to the moment, “is what matters most.”

    Feeling frazzled? 🌲✨ Slow down and sip your way into calm with Bigfoot’s tea rituals. Discover how simple herbal blends and mindful moments can ease tension, restore balance, and bring clarity—one soothing cup at a time. 🍵🌿

    Ready to Begin? Discover our blends and start your journey to nourishment today. Sign up for updates and early access to pre-orders.

    Quote by P.L. Travers: ‘Tea is balm for the soul, don’t you agree?’
    Tea is balm for the soul, don’t you agree?’ —P.L. Travers

  • Living Beyond the Edge (The Edge – Part 2)

    Living Beyond the Edge (The Edge – Part 2)

    Taking a leap into the unknown is never easy, but for us, it was a matter of survival. Leaving behind the safety nets of our old lives pushed us to grow in ways we never expected. That leap wasn’t just about changing our lives; it also changed the way we see health, balance, and even ourselves.

    But here’s the thing about stepping into the unknown: it doesn’t stop at the leap. The real magic happens when you start to settle into that wild, untamed space and realize it’s been waiting for you all along. For us, that’s where nature stepped in—teaching us lessons about balance, healing, and what it really means to live fully.

    Rediscovering Wisdom Beyond the Edge

    What waits for you beyond your comfort zone? For many, it’s a journey into holistic wellness, a deeper connection to nature, or a willingness to question the systems we’ve trusted for too long. Take the modern medical-pharmaceutical industry, for example. While its strengths—like life-saving surgeries and emergency care—are undeniable, it’s also become a profit-driven machine that often focuses on treating symptoms rather than addressing root causes.

    Ancient and alternative healing practices offer us something profound: balance. They focus on the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—and remind us to trust in nature’s ability to restore harmony. At first, these approaches might feel unfamiliar, but they’re rooted in traditions that have supported human health for centuries. Whether it’s through herbal remedies or mindfulness practices, they shift the focus from quick fixes to deeper, transformative journeys. Take nutrition, for example—it’s not just about what’s on your plate; it can be a powerful tool in managing chronic conditions like diabetes, often with results that go far beyond what medications can offer.

    A Personal Journey: Ditching the Quick Fixes

    For most of my life, I struggled with a malfunctioning thyroid. I tried countless medical “solutions”—all of them expensive, none of them lasting. No matter how hard I worked to shed the extra weight (and keep it off) or find my energy again, I kept hitting walls. Eventually, I had enough.

    With some of the courage I’d cultivated on our adventure, and with support from a community that believed in natural wellness, I made a bold choice: I walked away from conventional medicine and began seeking natural alternatives.

    A vibrant photo collage showcasing a nutrient-rich fruit bowl, herbal supplements, a 3D rendering of a thyroid gland, a pot of herbal tea with fresh flowers, and a hearty bowl of stew. Each image symbolizes elements of holistic healing and nutrition.
    From nutrient-packed meals to herbal teas and supplements, these natural interventions are helping me transform my thyroid health naturally.

    It wasn’t easy—change rarely is—but it changed my life. Over the past several months, with the help of high-quality supplements, herbal teas, intentional nutrition, and even focused meditation, I’ve watched my body repair itself. My hair and nails are growing stronger, my body temperature is finally stabilizing, and even my underwear is fitting better! (If you know, you know.) For the full story, click here.

    A Blueprint for Balance

    Nature offers more than beauty—it offers wisdom. Just as ecosystems thrive when everything works together in harmony, our health flourishes when we take a holistic approach. Ancient practices like herbal medicine and mindfulness focus on prevention and the body’s innate ability to heal, while modern medicine excels in acute care and advanced technologies. When we bring these approaches together, we create a balanced, sustainable path to wellness.

    Take turmeric, for example—a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. Its active compound, curcumin, is celebrated for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Remedies like turmeric and ashwagandha aren’t just old traditions; they’re gaining recognition in modern wellness for their proven benefits. Even grounding techniques, like walking barefoot on natural surfaces, align beautifully with the balance ancient wisdom teaches us. They’ve been shown to reduce inflammation and lift our moods, reminding us that sometimes the simplest practices are the most profound.

    Golden milk recipe card featuring a simple blend of turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and milk with step-by-step instructions.
    Golden Milk Recipe: A cozy, anti-inflammatory drink to end your day with balance and warmth.

    One of my favorite ways to embrace this balance is through my nightly ritual of golden milk. A simple blend of turmeric, cinnamon, and milk, it’s become a cornerstone of my thyroid healing journey. There’s something grounding and nurturing about this small act of self-care at the end of the day.

    If you’d like to try it, click the recipe card above for an instant download!

    Herbal Remedies, Leeches, and Modern Medicine: A Conversation

    Herbal remedies often get written off as old-fashioned or ‘alternative,’ but science is starting to catch up to their potential. Take white willow bark, for example. This ancient remedy has long been used to relieve pain and inflammation—so much so that it inspired the development of modern aspirin. And ashwagandha? This incredible herb has been shown to lower cortisol levels and boost resilience to stress. These time-tested remedies remind us that ancient wisdom often has a place in modern wellness.

    (For a deeper dive into the science, check out Nature’s Secret Sauce: 4 Reasons to Go Outside.)

    That said, not every old remedy stands the test of time. Bleeding with leeches? Let’s leave that one in the past. But some ideas—like the power of laughter—are timeless. Research from institutions like the Mayo Clinic shows that laughter therapy can lower stress hormones, improve immune function, and release endorphins. Even a quick laugh can boost your mood and lower your blood pressure.

    And let me tell you, few things are funnier than Scot wrestling with a broken black tank pipe.


    The Great Black Tank Fiasco

    Everyone—every RVing blogger, YouTuber, and parts person—had told us to NEVER put butt wipes down the toilet. But hygiene, especially in those parts, can be challenging in such a small space, and we found wipes that specifically said Safe for RV Septic Systems. Alas, the advertising was false. Soon, we found ourselves dealing with the proverbial poop pyramid, which was not only encroaching upwards into our living (and smelling) space but also leaking out the bottom onto our campsite. Being a Sunday and far from any kind of open parts store, we had to make do with what we had.

    Scot, armed with duct tape, gloves, and a wildly misplaced sense of optimism, approached the failing pipes. And me? I was doubled over with laughter before he even got started. The first time he crouched under the camper, I heard a loud splatter and a string

    of colorful language that made me laugh even harder. I could barely breathe. Between handing him a variety of wrenches, pliers, and other tools I couldn’t identify, tears streamed down my face.

    To his credit, Scot gamely tried to make it work, but every time he adjusted something, a new leak sprouted. At one point, he emerged, covered in questionable splatters, and glared at me while I sat uselessly on a rock nearby, gasping for air between fits of giggles.

    “Glad this is so entertaining for you,” he muttered, which, of course, only made it worse.

    By the time the tank was temporarily patched with duct tape and a prayer, we were both laughing so hard we couldn’t even be mad. It was gross. It was ridiculous. And it was the best belly laugh I’d had in months.


    A cheerful couple laughing together by a serene river, surrounded by lush green trees. The woman wears a pink hoodie and matching pink cap, and the man wears a gray shirt and dark cap. Their genuine smiles convey joy and connection.
    Even after life’s messiest moments, laughter brings us together. A shared laugh by the river reminds us that joy is always within reach.

    So no, leeches won’t be making a comeback in our wellness toolkit. But laughter? That’s staying forever. It’s a reminder that even when life gets messy—literally—there’s always something to smile about. And honestly, I’m still laughing at the memory of Scot’s poopocalypse.

    What’s Beyond the Edge?

    The edge of your comfort zone isn’t just a boundary—it’s a threshold. Beyond it lies the untamed terrain of discovery, where the unknown transforms from a place of fear into a wellspring of possibility. It’s where life nudges you to shed the familiar and step boldly into the wilderness of what could be.

    Out there, past the safety of what you know, lies the birthplace of transformation. Maybe it’s redefining your health, discovering your wild purpose, or rekindling a connection to nature that once felt instinctive but now seems distant. Whatever calls you, stepping into the unknown is where life’s magic unfolds.

    Picture this: you’re the adventurer, following tracks through the forest. The trees close in around you, shadows stretching long across the path. Each step feels uncertain, the trail ahead murky and undefined. Fear whispers that you should turn back, but curiosity pulls you forward. You don’t know where the tracks lead, but you keep walking because some part of you senses that the forest holds answers you can’t find anywhere else.

    And then it happens—an opening in the trees. Sunlight filters through,

    illuminating a view you couldn’t have imagined from where you started. The journey was winding and strange, but it brought you to a place where clarity emerges. Isn’t that how transformation works? The path isn’t always linear, but it always leads somewhere meaningful.

    A rugged forest scene with sunlight filtering through the trees, casting a golden glow on the uneven terrain. Faint Bigfoot tracks lead into the forest, evoking mystery and curiosity.
    The mysterious path beckons…will you follow the tracks?

    You Won’t Know if You Don’t Go

    In many ways, the unknown is like Bigfoot. Elusive. Mysterious. A mix of wonder and intimidation. But that’s precisely why it’s so powerful—it challenges you to grow. Bigfoot’s tracks inspire curiosity, daring us to follow, even when the destination isn’t clear. And when you take that first step, you begin to uncover strengths and possibilities you didn’t know you had.

    So, what waits beyond your edge? Maybe it’s a healthier body fueled by intentional choices. Perhaps it’s a life rooted in alignment with your values and passions. Maybe it’s an unshakable connection to the natural world, where you finally feel at home. The tracks ahead are yours to follow, but they require courage, trust, and an open heart.

    Channel your inner Bigfoot. Be bold. Be curious. Trust the wildness beyond. Those tracks might not lead exactly where you expect, but they’ll take you exactly where you need to go. Sometimes, the most profound journeys start with a single, brave step into the unknown. Will you take it?


    And speaking of the unknown, you can take the first step over the edge by discovering your unique Bigfoot Archetype with our Bigfoot Archetype Quiz!

    🌲 Step into the Wild Squatch Forest! 🌲
    Join the Wild Squatch tribe and unlock tales of health, adventure, and transformation. From Bigfoot-inspired wellness tips to magical recipes and exclusive goodies, our newsletter will guide you to your wildest purpose.

    Don’t miss a single trek into the unknown—sign up now and let the adventure begin! 🧈”

  • Leaping Off The Edge (The Edge – Part 1)

    Leaping Off The Edge (The Edge – Part 1)

    Have you ever stood at the edge of something new and terrifying, a leap you weren’t sure you could take? Maybe it was a diving board as a kid—your heart racing, toes curled around the edge, your stomach doing flips. And there you were, every inch of you paralyzed by the thought of embracing the unknown. Would the water be freezing? Would the other kids laugh? But still, somewhere deep inside, a tiny voice whispered, “Jump.”

    That’s how it feels to follow a mysterious set of tracks into the woods. You don’t know where they’ll lead, what you’ll find, or if you’ll ever come back the same. But here’s the thing: the unknown, much like our elusive friend Bigfoot, has a way of stirring the pot. It grabs your imagination, shakes you awake, and dares you to grow…if you dare.

    Scot and I found ourselves at that edge in April 2020. The world was locked down, and our lives felt equally boxed in. Our jobs, which had been draining our energy for years, had become full-blown soul-suckers. The cracks in our foundation had turned into craters, and yet we clung to that crumbling familiarity like shipwreck survivors to a splintered plank. The known was killing us, but the unknown? That was uncharted territory. And honestly, it scared us.

    But sometimes, life doesn’t leave you much of a choice. So we jumped. We left behind the careers, the safety nets, the societal expectations. We didn’t have a plan—just a destination: Millinocket, Maine. And while I wish I could say we leapt gracefully, the truth is we flailed. It was messy, uncomfortable, and humbling. But it was also the beginning of something wild and beautiful.

    Curious about our leap of faith? Check out From Stressed to Squatched for our full story!

    Why Do We Fear the Edge?

    Let’s be honest: embracing the unknown gets a bad rap. Evolution trained us to avoid it; after all, in prehistoric times, the rustling in the bushes could have been a predator. But in modern life, that instinct can keep us stuck in routines that no longer serve us. Jobs we hate. Relationships we’ve outgrown. Even beliefs that don’t fit anymore. It’s all so safe, and yet, it’s suffocating.

    The unknown, on the other hand, is like a shadowy forest. Sure, it’s dark, and yes, there might be bears. But it’s also where the magic happens. Growth, discovery, transformation—none of that happens on the well-worn trail. You have to step into the mystery. And isn’t it funny how every single thing we now call “familiar” started out as unfamiliar? A job, a friendship, a city—it all began as uncharted territory.

    Bigfoot: Our Guide Along the Edge

    We were high in the mountains of Eastern Oregon, under a full moon in June 2023, more than 30 miles from the nearest humans. After a grueling day of squatching—seven or eight miles of unforgiving terrain—we were completely wiped out. Daisy, our dog, had collapsed in the back seat hours earlier and hadn’t moved. Moonlight poured through the tent fly, casting the meadow in a silver glow so bright it felt like daylight.

    But the meadow wasn’t resting. Juvenile elk bugled and clashed antlers, foxes trilled, coyotes yipped and barked, and owls added their hoots to the mix. Even the crickets seemed determined to outdo one another. Lying there, exhaustion pulling at me, I thought, How am I supposed to sleep through this circus? Then, as if responding to my frustration, I muttered, “Would everyone PLEASE just SHUT UP?”

    A scream ripped through the night—a sound so loud, so sharp, it cut through every other noise. Then came another scream, from a different direction. And then a third, somewhere else entirely. Scot and I froze in our sleeping bags, wide-eyed and silent. That wasn’t a cougar. It wasn’t a bear. It wasn’t anything we recognized. We didn’t dare speak, but the look we exchanged said everything: What. Was. That?

    And just like that, the meadow went silent. Not a rustle, not a chirp. The quiet stretched until dawn, when the grouse began their morning drumbeats as if nothing had happened.

    Embracing the Unknown Doesn’t Always Mean Understanding It…

    To this day, we don’t know what made those screams, and we probably never will. I like to think the Sasquatch were as annoyed with the noise as I was. The mystery of that night stays with us, and it’s become one of our favorite stories.

    Bigfoot, with all his mystery and intrigue, is the perfect symbol of the unknown. He challenges us to face the parts of ourselves we haven’t yet discovered, to step into uncharted territory where true growth begins. Just as Bigfoot roams the wild forests, we have the chance to explore the untamed parts of our own potential. And like any good Bigfoot story, it’s the journey—not the destination—that matters most.

    Moving Beyond that Fearful Edge

    Embracing the unknown and taking that step into it can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to happen all at once. When we launched our journey in 2020, we didn’t have everything figured out, but we found ways to move forward, step by step:

    • We embraced curiosity: Instead of dwelling on “What if this goes wrong?” we leaned into “What might we discover?” Honestly, most of the time we just said, “What the hell? Let’s make it work.” That shift—from feeling stuck to seeing ourselves as adventurers—helped us take those first bold steps.
    • We started small: No grand plans, no safety nets—just one clear goal: Millinocket, Maine. If we could get there on our last paychecks, we’d figure the rest out as it came. And ever since, it’s been about asking one simple question: What’s the next step? Then taking it.
    • We leaned into uncertainty: Like spotting Bigfoot, there were no guarantees. Our journey wasn’t about knowing every answer but about growing into better versions of ourselves along the way—and yes, maybe catching a glimpse of something extraordinary.
    • We found our people: Bigfoot doesn’t roam alone, and neither should we. When our old community no longer fit, we curated a new one. Letting go of relationships that didn’t support us made room for those that did.
    • We celebrated every win: Big or small, every step mattered. On hard days, when the truck wouldn’t start or the batteries wouldn’t charge, we reminded ourselves how far we’d come. The life we used to dream about is the one we wake up to now, and that makes it all worth it.

    But stepping beyond the edge isn’t just about embracing change—it’s about discovering what lies on the other side. Remember Indiana Jones?

    For us, that leap of faith led to something deeper: a rediscovery of balance, wisdom, and the surprising ways nature has always been our greatest teacher.

    (To be continued…)


    Ready to Take Your First Step?
    Embracing the unknown doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right tools, you can turn fear into curiosity and courage. That’s why we’ve created “Steps to Embrace the Unknown: Your Bigfoot Blueprint to Bravery”—a simple, actionable guide to help you navigate the wild and embrace your own edge.

    Download the Blueprint Now and take your first step into the adventure of a lifetime.


    🌲 Step into the Wild Squatch Forest! 🌲
    Join the Wild Squatch tribe and unlock tales of health, adventure, and transformation. From Bigfoot-inspired wellness tips to magical recipes and exclusive goodies, our newsletter will guide you to your wildest purpose.

    Don’t miss a single trek into the unknown—sign up now and let the adventure begin! 🧈”

  • Nature’s Secret Sauce: 4 Reasons to Go Outside

    Nature’s Secret Sauce: 4 Reasons to Go Outside

    You know that feeling when life gets overwhelming—when your to-do list seems endless, and your brain just won’t stop spinning? I’ve been there more times than I can count. And while there are countless ways to recharge, there’s one thing I keep coming back to: going outside.

    It’s not fancy or complicated, but it’s incredibly effective. Nature is like fry sauce (hear me out!). You know, that simple mix of ketchup and mayo that somehow becomes something magical? Nature works the same way—it’s an uncomplicated blend of fresh air, earthy scents, and the grounding touch of the wild. Somehow, being outside just makes everything better.

    When we left our entire life behind in 2020 and drove away—into the metaphoric and literal woods—I started experiencing this miraculous “fry-sauce effect” firsthand. It wasn’t just a temporary escape; it was healing in ways I didn’t expect. And the more time I spent outside, the more I realized just how powerful nature’s medicine really is.

    Here’s the wild truth: Nature doesn’t just help us feel better—it actually heals us, body and mind.

    Dipping into that Sauce

    1. Nature Heals

    Did you know that spending time in nature can lower stress levels, reduce anxiety, and even boost your immune system? Studies on the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, have revealed its incredible effects on physical and mental health. Exposure to natural environments lowers blood pressure, calms the nervous system, and elevates mood. Pretty amazing, right?

    But I didn’t just read about this—I lived it.

    Let’s flash back to 2020. It took us a while to actually get to the forest. At the time, I was still teaching online, sitting in our camper for hours, staring at that oh-so-familiar Brady Bunch grid of faces on Google Meet. In between classes, we were driving pell-mell across the country—4,000 miles from Oregon to Maine—covering ground as fast as we could.

    Related Post: If you want the full story of how we left it all behind and headed into the wild, check out From Stressed to Squatched. 🌿

    And then we arrived.

    There I was, this city-born-and-bred girl, parked in a rustic North Maine Woods campground, fumbling with kindling for campfires and literally tripping over boulders jutting out from the dirt roads. But everything changed on June 11, 2020—an auspicious day. At 10 a.m. Eastern, I logged out of my school account for the last time, and for the first time in years, I had a chance to poke my nose outside.

    Hours in front of a computer were traded for hours walking barefoot, soaking up the sun, and even climbing mountains. It was a 180-degree turnaround from inside to outside.

    And then it happened.

    Three months later, I realized something incredible: the shaking, trembling, and dread I’d been waking up with for years was gone. Absolutely gone. I remember standing there in disbelief, thinking, “Is this what not having a panic attack feels like? This is AWESOME!”

    A smiling man and woman stand in front of a rushing river surrounded by forest. The man wears a black shirt and hat, while the woman wears a camo hat with a Bigfoot logo and purple glasses, both enjoying the outdoors.
    From the digital classroom to the North Maine Woods—my first adventure after ending my teaching contract. A city girl stepping into a brand new, wilder world…and loving every moment of it. 🌲✨

    At the same time, the world was navigating the global SARS-CoV-2 virus. And while I did eventually get sick, battling it for about a month, I managed to fight it off with nothing more than rest, hydration, and nutrition…and LOTS of Vitamin D from sitting outside in the sun. I believe with my whole heart that soaking up nature’s medicine gave me the strength to recover and protect my body from what could have been a much worse outcome.

    Since then? I can count on fewer than five fingers the number of times I’ve been sick.

    The wild truth? Nature has the power to heal—not just emotionally, but physically, too.

    (For the science enthusiasts: If you want to geek out on the research behind this, check out our free PDF download here or grab it at the end of this post!)

    2. Nature Resets…

    You know the drill: endless emails, constant notifications, and the blue glow of screens staring back at you day and night. It’s like being caught in a hamster wheel that never stops spinning. And while I love the freedom of remote work—creating content and coaching from anywhere—sometimes “anywhere” starts to feel like everywhere.

    There was one trip that really brought this home for me. We’d been stuck behind our screens for weeks—working on projects, answering emails, and squinting into our computers from the cramped space of the camper. The dog was getting restless, we were getting irritable, and we both felt like we were just stuck and spinning our wheels, aimlessly and without purpose anymore.  

    Finally, we decided: enough. We packed up our camping (vs. glamping) gear and drove deeper into the wilderness, setting up camp at one of our favorite rustic spots high in the mountains of Eastern Oregon —no cell service, no distractions, just the crackle of the fire and the sound of the wind in the trees.

    At first, it felt uncomfortable. My mind still raced with to-do lists and unfinished ideas, as if I could feel the notifications piling up in my inbox. But then, something shifted.

    I watched our dog dart happily through the trees, blissfully unaware of the modern chaos we’d just escaped. We wandered aimlessly, searching for signs of Bigfoot—half-serious, half-hoping we’d stumble across something magical. I remember standing still in a clearing, surrounded by nothing but the hum of the forest, the sharp scent of pine needles, the distant call of a bird I didn’t recognize, the soft crunch of leaves underfoot, and feeling the tension melt out of my shoulders.

    That’s when it hit me: I wasn’t just unplugging from my laptop—I was plugging into something bigger.

    …to factory specs.

    Nature has this way of resetting your brain, like closing out all those open browser tabs and starting fresh. You don’t have to “do” anything to feel it—just being outside, breathing deeply, and letting your senses soak up the wild is enough.

    Three days later, when we returned to our camper, the fog in our minds had lifted. Ideas started flowing again, our energy felt lighter, and we remembered why we’d chosen this life in the first place: freedom, connection, and room to breathe.  Not to mention the chance to hear Bigfoot howling in the distance…which we did…

    To top it off, we weren’t just recharged—we were clear-headed and ready to make some brave new choices about our future.

    The wild truth? Sometimes the best way to hit “reset” isn’t by escaping to a tropical spa or binge-watching Netflix—it’s getting outside, stepping into the woods, letting go of the noise, and rediscovering the clarity you didn’t even know you’d lost.

    3. Nature Inspires

    There’s something magical about nature that invites us to slow down and see the world—and ourselves—through new eyes. But let me tell you, I didn’t fully understand that magic until I found myself staring up at Mt. Katahdin in Northern Maine.

    I’d never climbed a mountain before, not really. But this time felt different. It was our anniversary, and I wanted to celebrate by doing something that had always been out of reach. I’d lost a significant amount of weight that year, and for the first time in ages, I felt like my body could do things—big things.

    It was also a chance to re-live our honeymoon, 23 years earlier, when we’d gone camping and “mountain climbing” for the first time. And by “climbing,” I mean Scot nearly had to carry me down the mountain after I dramatically realized that my attempt to be a nature girl might have been, well, premature.

    So, there I was, years later, at the base of this real mountain—wind in my hair, boots laced tight—feeling a mix of excitement, fear, and disbelief. Could I actually do this?

    …to make the climb.

    We started the climb, and for the first time in years, I felt like a kid again. I was scrambling over boulders, splashing across creeks, laughing breathlessly at the absurdity of it all, and marveling at how the higher we climbed, the quieter the world seemed to become. It wasn’t just the physical challenge that felt so freeing; it was the wonder. The kind of wonder that makes you stop mid-step to gape at a view you’ve never seen before. (I thought I could see the entire state of Maine from up there!) The kind of wonder that humbles you and fills you up all at once.

    And here’s the thing: climbing that mountain wasn’t about proving something to myself, though I did. It was about rediscovering joy—real, childlike joy—in the act of play. At some point along the climb, I realized I wasn’t just reaching for the summit; I was reaching for a part of myself I thought I’d lost.

    Hannah, a woman, smiling in a purple hat and glasses, sitting above the treeline on Mt. Katahdin, leaning against the rock wall of the mountain.
    Above the treeline on Mt. Katahdin—my first successful mountain climb. Almost the top of the world, and definitely on top of my own. ⛰️

    Did I reach the summit? Nope. But I made it above the treeline, and let me tell you—I nearly cried with joy, pride, and exhilaration as the setting sun told us it was time to turn back. When we finally descended (on my own two legs this time!), I felt something shift inside me. Nature had reminded me how to play again. To laugh, to marvel, to feel pride in my body and gratitude for my life.

    And that sense of wonder? It hasn’t left me since.

    The wild truth? Nature doesn’t just show us beauty—it invites and inspires us to play in it. To splash in creeks, climb mountains (even if they feel a little ridiculous), and remember what it’s like to feel fully alive. But we will only experience that if we take the initiative to unplug and go outside!

    4. Nature Connects

    When we first drove away in 2020, we had every intention of keeping to ourselves. Public life had made it hard to know friend from foe, and the safest plan seemed to be sticking to our own little circle—just the two of us (and the dog).

    But when we arrived at that rustic Maine campground, something unexpected happened. We met people—wonderful, kind, and genuine people—who reminded us what real connection feels like. Some of those strangers even turned out to be distant family we never knew existed, as if the wild itself had been conspiring to reconnect us.

    Four people smiling in front of the Wilderness Edge Campground sign, standing together on gravel with an American flag flying nearby, surrounded by trees and rocks. This photo was taken just after discovering they are cousins.
    Minutes after discovering we were cousins, we had to capture this moment at Wilderness Edge Campground—a surprise reunion only nature (and maybe Bigfoot) could have orchestrated. 🏕️✨

    Over evening campfires, we swapped stories. Over morning coffee, we shared laughs. And through ATV rides that bumped us deep into the wilderness, we grew to love these new friends as though we’d known them forever.

    Here’s the funny thing about stepping outside, especially into the wild backwoods: it strips away pretenses. Out there, it doesn’t matter who you’ve been or what you do; it’s about who you are in that moment. And in that space, something else happened—we started rediscovering each other, too.

    Our marriage, which once felt fragile and troubled, began to heal. Maybe it’s because we had no choice but to rely on each other—when you’re climbing a mountain or blazing a trail on rough terrain, trust becomes non-negotiable (and let’s be real, it’s a great metaphor for marriage). Helping each other not literally fall off a mountain has a way of building a kind of trust that feels unshakable. We learned to lean on each other in ways we hadn’t before, and slowly, we grew into a partnership that was deeper and more resilient than we ever thought possible.

    …and connects, and connect…

    And the connections didn’t stop there. Those campfire friendships planted a seed. We started sharing our Bigfoot adventures with our growing community, hosting meetups across the country and inviting others (not limited to the USA!) into this wild life we love so much. What began as a desire to escape the

    Scot and Hannah and their 2 guests all the way from England, smiling in front of a bright blue off-road vehicle, parked with mountains and trees in the background, celebrating global Squatch America connections.
    Our Squatch America community knows no borders! Meetups like this—connecting with our friends all the way from England—remind us why the wild truly brings us together. 🌍🚙

    noise of public life turned into something we never expected: a network of incredible people who inspire us, challenge us, and remind us that life is richer when we share it.

    The wild truth? Nature doesn’t just help you find yourself—it helps you find your people. Whether it’s through shared laughter on an ATV trail, quiet moments around a fire, or supporting each other up a steep climb, the connections forged in outside four walls are some of the most genuine and lasting ones you’ll ever make.

    Tips to Bring the Wild Into Your Life

    You don’t have to climb mountains or wander deep into the wilderness to feel the magic of nature (though I highly recommend it at least once!). Here are a few simple ways to start reconnecting with the wild:

    • Start Small: You’d be amazed at how restorative even 10 minutes outside can be. Take a walk in the park, sit under a tree, or let the sun warm your face while you sip your morning coffee. Small moments count.
    • Go Barefoot: Kick off your shoes and feel the earth beneath your feet. Grass, dirt, sand—it’s grounding, both literally and figuratively. It’s called earthing, and trust me, it’s worth a try.  (And to kick it up a notch?  Lay down on grass and feel that energy soak up, right into your spine.) 
    • Tune In: Put the phone away (yes, really). Close your eyes and listen to the wind in the trees. Notice the scents in the air, the rhythm of your footsteps, or the way the sunlight hits the leaves. Let yourself be there.
    • Try Forest Bathing: Find a quiet trail, a patch of woods, or even a nearby nature reserve and just wander. No agenda, no destination—just let yourself soak it all in. It’s surprisingly freeing.
    • Make It a Habit: Nature is the kind of medicine that works best when you take it regularly. Even short, consistent visits to the wild can work wonders for your mind, body, and soul.

    The Path Back to Yourself: Go Outside

    Reconnecting with nature isn’t just about self-care; it’s about reclaiming a piece of yourself that’s been buried under all the noise of modern life. It’s about remembering that you’re part of something bigger—a world that doesn’t need your to-do list, your deadlines, or your notifications to keep spinning.

    So, here’s your invitation: step outside. Breathe deeply. Listen for the whisper of the wind or the call of a far-off bird. Let yourself soak in the magic that’s been waiting for you all along.

    Go ahead. Take that first step. You’ve got nothing to lose and everything to rediscover.

    Because here’s the wild truth: nature is like fry sauce—simple, timeless, and greater than the sum of its parts. It heals, it inspires, it transforms…without the extra fry sauce calories.


    Want to dig deeper into the science? Download our free resource, “Nature’s Healing Power,” packed with research and insights to inspire your next adventure into the wild.

    Download the PDF Here


    🌲 Step into the Wild Squatch Forest! 🌲
    Join the Wild Squatch tribe and unlock tales of health, adventure, and transformation. From Bigfoot-inspired wellness tips to magical recipes and exclusive goodies, our newsletter will guide you to your wildest purpose.

    Don’t miss a single trek into the unknown—sign up now and let the adventure begin! 🧈”

  • From Stressed to Squatched

    From Stressed to Squatched

    We were drowning. In fact, we had been drowning for decades. The demands of life—raising a blended family, working 80-hour weeks in thankless careers, and scrambling through side hustles just to stay afloat—had finally left us gasping for air. Community obligations piled on, debt loomed larger each day, and our marriage buckled under the relentless pressure.

    In public, we couldn’t tell friend from foe; in private, we were breaking apart. Divorce papers sat on the table, and tears of pain, frustration, and desperation became our constant companions. The boundaries between our public and private lives blurred into chaos. Even our adult children and pets could feel the tension that consumed our home.

    We wanted out but felt trapped—tied to a life that no longer felt like our own. We knew something had to change. Life was overwhelming, and our stress management strategies – if we had any – weren’t working.

    Then, in 2020, the world came to a standstill.

    For the first time in decades, everything paused. It was then we faced a choice: continue suffocating in the life we’d built or take a leap of faith into the unknown.

    Moving from Chaos to Clarity: How We Found Freedom in the Forest

    As the global pandemic brought the world to a halt, we took a long, hard look at the life we were desperately trying to hold together. We made a drastic decision: finish the employment contracts binding us, cash out every resource, hook up our camper, and drive away—into the woods, both literally and metaphorically.

    A truck and camper parked in a snowy forest, symbolizing the start of a journey to escape stress and reconnect with nature.
    Our escape into the wild, where the journey From Stressed to Squatched began.

    Yes, we were searching for Bigfoot. We poured our energy into building our dream and our nationwide organization (Squatch America). But we were also searching for something we couldn’t quite name—peace, clarity, maybe just a moment to breathe. Surrounded by towering trees and the hush of the forest, we began to piece ourselves back together—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

    Along the way, as we searched for Bigfoot, we found something even more elusive: ourselves.

    Ultimately, that’s how Wild Squatch Wellness was born—from the belief that reconnecting with nature helps us rediscover who we really are. We learned that within each of us lies a deeply embedded purpose, one far wilder than we could have ever imagined.

    Reclaiming Our Wild Selves

    We didn’t set out to find a new way of living—we just wanted to survive. We cranked out YouTube videos and learned how to carve out some financial security on our adventure. But somewhere between the towering trees and quiet nights, something shifted. The forest became more than a refuge; it became a teacher. Bit by bit, it showed us how to live again, reconnecting us with vitality, joy, and the mystery of it all.

    Rediscovering Vitality

    At first, it felt impossible to unwind from the grind. Our bodies carried the weight of years of stress and neglect, but the forest had its way of pulling us back to life. Walking beneath the trees, our breath grew deeper, our steps lighter. We let go of rigid schedules and started moving simply for the joy of it—chopping firewood, exploring trails, lying on the ground, and even developing my own daily yoga practice. (I still think “Sun Salutations with Sassy” could be a thing!)

    Food took on a new meaning, too. Instead of rushing through meals or relying on convenience, we slowed down. We planned ahead, often cooking over an open fire. Instead of relying on “box foods” from the center of the grocery store, we started seeking fresh, organic, and locally grown ingredients. We learned what truly nourished our bodies and what caused dis-ease. Stress management is easier when the body is healthy and we experienced that firsthand. The forest reminded us that vitality doesn’t come from quick fixes or fads; it grows in the quiet, daily choices to honor your body and your instincts.

    Embracing Joy

    Joy didn’t return all at once—it crept in like sunlight through the trees. At first, it was the small things: the rustle of leaves on a windy day, the crackle of a campfire shared with friends, the laughter we hadn’t heard in far too long. As we gave ourselves permission to slow down and play, we began to see beauty in the messiness of life.

    Pretty soon, we found ourselves staring up at constellations together, enjoying a silence that used to feel uncomfortable and awkward. Our hearts, once so distant, came back together and began beating in sync. Joy, we learned, isn’t about chasing away stress (we still have plenty of that); it’s about stress management that keeps us calmly present for all of the moments, allowing us to get through the difficult ones and truly savor the beautiful ones – together.

    Two people sitting in the woods holding hands, surrounded by sunlight and trees, symbolizing reconnection, peace, and the joy of being present together in nature.
    Reconnection and peace: Together, we found our wild truth amidst the trees.

    Living the Mystery

    The woods are full of mystery, and they invited us to embrace the unknown in a way we never had before. We didn’t always know where we were going, what the next day would hold, or how we would pay for it all, but instead of fighting the uncertainty, we leaned into it.

    Searching for Bigfoot was a metaphor as much as it was an adventure. We found joy in asking questions and following trails we couldn’t see the end of. The forest taught us to trust our intuition, listen to its whispers, and find wonder in the journey rather than the destination.

    There were times we got lost—literally and figuratively—but those detours often led us to something unexpected and beautiful. We discovered that living with mystery doesn’t mean having all the answers; it means making space for wonder and trusting that the path, however wild, will take you where you’re meant to go.

    Your Wild Purpose Awaits

    Wild Squatch Wellness was born from our journey from chaos to clarity…from stressed to squatched!  We learned that it isn’t about trendy gimmicks or quick fixes—it’s about something far deeper: stepping away from the noise, reconnecting with what feels real, and finding the courage to live in harmony with yourself, your community, and the natural world – TRUE FREEDOM.

    In the forest we learned that healing begins when we strip away distractions and listen to the quiet wisdom within. It reminded us that we’re not meant to live disconnected and overwhelmed. Each of us has a wild purpose—something rooted in who we are and how we’re meant to show up in the world.

    We created Wild Squatch Wellness not just as a brand but as a gathering place for those who feel the same call. Whether you’re here to explore, learn, heal, or rediscover your own wild purpose, you’ve already taken the first step.

    The forest opened its arms to us, and now we extend that same welcome to you. This is your invitation to slow down, reconnect, and embrace the journey ahead—to reclaim a vibrant, magical, and sovereign life. Your wild purpose awaits, and we’re so glad you’re here.


    Are you ready to find your wild purpose? Download From Stressed to Squatched: A Daily Wellness Tracker to start your journey today!

    Want to know just what your inner Wild Squatch is? Take the Bigfoot Archetype Quiz and discover the unique traits that make you, well, you!


    🌲 Step into the Wild Squatch Forest! 🌲
    Join the Wild Squatch tribe and unlock tales of health, adventure, and transformation. From Bigfoot-inspired wellness tips to magical recipes and exclusive goodies, our newsletter will guide you to your wildest purpose.

    Don’t miss a single trek into the unknown—sign up now and let the adventure begin! 🧈”