There’s a certain kind of peace that can only be found deep in the heart of nature—far from the hum of daily life, where the only sounds are the whispers of the wind and the soft crunch of snow beneath your feet. This past winter, I found that peace at Medawisla Lodge & Cabins in the remote wilderness of Maine. But more than that, I found connection, purpose, and resilience alongside my fellow veterans from Team RWB.

Why Team RWB Expeditions Matter for Veterans

As a veteran—let alone a female veteran—I often feel isolated in my own community. There’s an unspoken bond in military life, one built through shared sacrifice, unwavering trust, and the knowledge that every one of us has signed a blank check for our country. The civilian world doesn’t operate on the same principles. The camaraderie, the structure, and the sense of belonging we once knew often feel like distant memories. It can be difficult to explain the profound difference between military and civilian mindsets, the deep interdependence we develop with our teams, and the silent understanding that comes from having walked the same path.

That’s why these Team RWB expeditions mean so much more than just an adventure. They offer us the chance to reconnect—not only with nature but with each other. Sitting around a dinner table, sharing stories of different duty stations and training experiences, laughing over memories that civilians might never quite grasp, we find that bond again. In those moments, the isolation fades, and for the first time in a long time, I feel whole.

Snowshoeing, Skiing, and Overcoming Challenges

This trip to Medawisla Lodge was nothing short of transformative. We snowshoed to the top of a mountain, every step a reminder of our strength and perseverance. We nordic skied across a frozen lake, gliding over the untouched snow, feeling the crisp winter air invigorate our senses. The challenges tested us, but that’s where resilience is built—in the struggle, in the push forward, in the shared effort to reach the summit together.

Finding Peace and Healing in the Wilderness

But the most powerful moment for me came on the way back down from the mountain. The snow was falling gently around us, and when I stopped for a moment, I realized that our previous tracks had already been erased. The world was utterly still. No cars, no horns, no chatter, no distractions—just silence. A pure, unfiltered peace that settled deep in my soul. The anxious thoughts that usually race through my mind were gone. In that moment, I was grounded, fully present, embraced by the healing arms of Mother Nature.

How the Outdoors Helps with PTSD and Mental Health

Research shows that time in nature significantly reduces stress, anxiety, and symptoms of PTSD. The stillness of the wilderness, the rhythmic movement of hiking or skiing, and the shared camaraderie with fellow veterans create a healing space unlike any other. These experiences remind me that the world is still good, that serenity can be found beyond the chaos, and that healing is possible.

Why I Wander

The mountains always call to me. They sing the song of calm and serenity. They remind me that I am here, in this moment, alive and connected to something greater. This is why I wander. This is why I seek adventure, why I step into the unknown, why I find solace in the beauty of the world around us. Because in the wilderness, I remember who I am. And in the company of my fellow veterans, I am never alone.

If you’re a veteran seeking connection, purpose, and adventure, I cannot recommend Team RWB enough. These experiences are more than just a trip—they are a lifeline back to the camaraderie and resilience we all carry within us.