Story Behind Photo: Mushroom Love 1933

By Robin D. Collin

Did you know that research supports that exposure to nature (pictures and physical spaces) is linked to improved mood and a sense of happiness?

Recently my heart has been tender with the heaviness of disappointment.  So I was really happy to have the sweet opportunity to do a guided hike with the companionship of a friend. We hiked, with a few other locals, a nature preserve located in Durham County. The hike really helped to alleviate the emotional heaviness I felt because I was able to engage with the nature around me in a very meaningful way. I was able to touch the smooth velvet underside of a white oak leaf and visually and mentally immerse myself in the wash of the white yellow colors of Beech tree leaves. I curiously observed and admired all the beautiful fungi growing on fallen trees. All of that really made me feel present in body and loved by the natural world around me. I’m thankful for how this walk helped me settle myself. The heaviness is not gone but I feel more confident of my ability to figure my way through it.

This is one of my favorite images captured during that hike. I felt connected with the softness of the fungi in this light. It reminds me that being soft and vulnerable can be the strength that you need.