by Tina Kusal – Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok – it’s definitely a social media world. Everyone has a smartphone or tablet these days and everywhere you look, heads are down and thumbs are scrolling. And, anxiety is rising. Specifically, body image anxiety.  It is no secret that the majority of images we scroll through are altered in some way. Be it an airbrushed selfie, removing objects, or changing lighting, the bottom line is that most of what we see is not real. When it comes to body image, the constant exposure to this “unrealistic perfection”, causes negative self-feelings.&n ..read more

by Tina Kusal – Mountains are the perfect escape. No matter how tall the peak, it is always just enough to lift you above the chaos of the everyday world. A place to rejuvenate. A place to breathe. But, what happens when the everyday chaos we create takes this away from us?  It is no secret that climate change is and continues to be a threat to us all. Sadly, it seems that Mother Nature is taking a bigger hit than we are. What is perhaps even sadder, is that we are the cause. And even, the highest peaks cannot escape the grasp of climate change.  Mount Everest, the highest mountain ..read more

by Tina Kusal – I can’t remember a time when I didn’t love the outdoors. Splashing in the ocean, running on the beach, hiking mountains, camping under a starry sky, and biking forest trails. And as for weather, I’ll have a smile on my face rain or shine. So, when I saw that my son got just as much enjoyment from nature as I did, I’ve always said it had to be genetics. And now, according to science, I was right. Since my son was a toddler, he would be by my side for every outdoor adventure, even if it was just a walk through a local park. His fascination with sounds and colors, followed by inq ..read more

Come along on an adventure in the meadows, mountains, and trees to witness the beauty of Mother Nature and why we must protect her! You & Me in the Trees is a delightful storybook for the young and young at heart. Amoris Walker’s words, brought to life by Alyssa Gnos’ magnificent illustration, remind us to protect Mother Earth and all her magnificent creatures. “Guaranteed to make your child’s imagination soar!” -Lynn Walker “Brammy” In You & Me in the Trees, Amoris reveals her love for the great outdoors, splendidly weaving a story in honor of natural places—habitats that must be pro ..read more

By Anna Timbrook – With its perfect pistes, St. Moritz is a small slice of heaven for avid skiers. However, the good news is, you really don’t have to be a skier at all to enjoy the region. Switzerland’s Engadin region is well known for its stunning lakes, mesmerizing nature and countless mountain biking and hiking trails.  The best part of it all is that the majority of them are family friendly, so they’re perfectly safe to explore with your little ones! From hiking trails that are straight out of fairytales to winter wonderland fun – here are the best family adventures in Engadin St. Mo ..read more

By Stephanie Harper – Let’s talk sun protective clothing. As soon as Summer hits the mountains where we live in Western North Carolina, I immediately begin stocking up on all the bug sprays and sunscreens along with a brimmed hat of some sort to throw in my backpack for easy access whenever we’re outside. But sometimes bug spray and sun protection isn’t enough. Enter: KÜHL sun protection shirts; because who doesn’t love wearability combined with functionality when shopping for outdoor clothing? The Perks of KÜHL’s Women’s Sun Protection Shirts I had the chance to test out three different piec ..read more

Image courtesy Amara Gardner by Stephanie Harper – Hiking long amounts of time under the changing skies while piecing together the sounds of stillness between each mile before realizing the aches of constant moving are equally important to the aches in the belly. Appalachian Trail sunrises and sunsets as lasting treats, the buds forming on trees, and the layering of clothes picked out for the long journey stuffed in a pack alongside a journal.  “This is weird but amazing–the way the world works naturally. As the seasons change now we’re starting to notice things are a lot more complex bu ..read more

Family River Rafting on the Lower Salmon River, Idaho By Cari Morgan – Combine epic scenery, wildlife sightings, splashy rapids, and stories around the campfire with several days of distraction-free time together, and guided multi-day river rafting trips offer families an idyllic outdoor adventure. The best part? You don’t have to plan all the meals, slog all the gear and research an itinerary and activities that will keep everyone entertained.  “For parents, it’s amazingly relaxing,” shared a mom from Rutland, Vermont who took her family on a Green River rafting trip through the Gates of ..read more

March marks Women’s History Month and to celebrate, we have compiled a great list of titles that can bring herstory to life. Use these inspiring books as a jumping off point to remember the achievements of women, discuss our individual opportunities to shine, and reflect on the impact women have had around the world. Snuggle in close with your girls and boys and explore conversations with them about gender, identity, tolerance, and diversity. While highlighting the relevancy of the women’s movement, don’t forget to recognize the men who championed their equity and equality and together we can ..read more

The outdoors are more of a refuge for us now than they’ve ever been before. From hikers, backpackers, and campers to road trippers, van lifers, powder chasers, and even outdoor-loving pets we checked off every box to make sure there’s something for every kind of adventurer in your life. Support us! Outdoor Families Magazine may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Best Outdoor Gifts of 2020 “We are an Outdoor Family” Coffee Mug – Price $23 Show your Outdoor Family spirit and make coffee and tea time a bit brighter with our custom “We are an Outdoor Family” coffee mug ..read more