Jeff Ganz takes the principle of “leave no trace” seriously. So seriously, in fact, that he brings a leaf blower on group hikes to erase footprints and ensure nature remains untouched.
But there’s one trace Ganz hopes his hikes do leave behind: a sense of well-being for those struggling with anxiety and depression. It’s something he knows about firsthand.
“I knew it from a young age,” Ganz said, reflecting on his lifelong battle with mental health. For years, he kept his struggles private, never sharing them with family, friends, or colleagues during his decade-long career in the restaurant industry, a career he once loved.
“Until I didn’t,” he said. “Being around booze and alcohol that often is not that great if you struggle with anxiety and depression.” Eventually, Ganz sold his shares in the business and took a sabbatical, traveling for nine months through Southeast Asia, Hawaii, and Mexico.
In each destination, he hiked. And with every mile, he felt lighter, less anxious, and less depressed. The healing power of nature was undeniable.
“Hiking changed everything,” Ganz said. “I was like, man, how can I bottle up the way this makes me feel and distribute it to everybody?”
That question led to the founding of the No Worries Amigo Hiking Club nine years ago. It’s a group specifically designed for people dealing with mental health challenges. What began with just three participants quickly grew. By the third hike, 35 people showed up, drawing a rebuke from park staff and creating high hopes for Ganz.
“It was incredible,” Ganz said. “Clearly, we were doing something meaningful.”
Today, Ganz leads more than 30 group hikes a year. His email list has grown to over 10,000 subscribers. Each hike begins with a brief sharing of his story and mental health resources, but the rest is simple: walking through nature, disconnected from phones and daily stress.
“Mother Nature, the trees, being away from your phone—disconnecting and getting in touch with yourself—is something a lot of us struggle with,” Ganz said. “Especially those dealing with anxiety and depression.”
The hikes also foster connection among participants, creating a supportive, like-minded community. For many, it’s a first step toward better mental health.
“It was the best therapy and the best drug I’ve ever experienced,” one hiker shared. “As far as anything that helps me cope with my anxiety and depression.”
Source: NBC Bay Area
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