🌳 Easy ways to begin hiking

Tuesday 11/25: Sponsored by Babbel and Jacuzzi Shower - Perks of nature, beginner hiking tips, and sunset of the day

November 25, 2025

Tuesday

“Let nature be your home base.”

In today’s issue, we’ll take a look at:

True or False?

The sound of nature (like birdsong or running water) can reduce stress hormones in the body.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

The Mental and Physical Perks of Nature

It’s easy to spend the whole day indoors working, commuting, or scrolling. But even a few minutes outside can make a real difference in how you feel, think, and sleep.

Studies show that nature helps reduce stress hormones, calm the nervous system, and improve memory and focus. It doesn’t take much. Just 20 minutes in a green space can lower blood pressure and lift your mood. Natural sunlight also helps reset your sleep cycle, making it easier to wind down at night.

If your week feels packed, try a five-minute step outside between tasks or take your next phone call while walking. On weekends, even simple things like lunch at a local park or a gentle hike can help your body and mind catch up with each other.

And if you're craving something more seasonal, fall is a perfect time to visit a nearby state or national park. The air feels different. The trees change. It’s a reminder that slowing down, even briefly, is good for us.

Sunset of the Day in Santa Rosa

The Canopy reader David shared this cozy view from his window: raindrops still on the screen, rooftops glistening, and the sun shining perfectly through a palm tree. One of those everyday moments that catches you off guard in the best way.

Thanks to David for sending this in. If you’ve captured a sunset that made you stop and breathe a little deeper, we’d love to see it too!

Image courtesy of The Canopy reader, David.

Babbel's Black Friday Sale: 65% Off

Grow your impact — from the inside out. Learning a new language isn’t just a personal gain. It’s a way to deepen your connection with people, cultures, and the planet.

In just 3 weeks, Babbel’s bite-sized lessons, clear grammar, nature-inspired podcast-style audio, and real speaking practice help you build confidence in a way that’s sustainable and meaningful.

This Black Friday, you can make a thoughtful, one-time investment: $199 for unlimited lifetime access to every language. Why this matters for the planet: Strengthening cross-cultural communication helps you engage more deeply in global environmental conversations. You’re investing in yourself in a way that benefits both you and the wider world — not another disposable gadget.

Grow your voice. Build global empathy. Speak for a better world.

Thank you to Babbel for sponsoring The Canopy.

Easy Ways To Begin Hiking

Hiking can be as simple as a walk through your nearest park, and it doesn’t take much to get started. A few basics and a little curiosity can go a long way.

Start with shorter trails that match your current fitness level. Look for well-marked paths at local nature reserves or state parks. As you build confidence, you can explore longer hikes and different terrain at your own pace.

Bring plenty of water, wear comfy shoes with good grip, and dress in layers. Keep snacks, sunscreen, and a small first-aid kit on hand. If you’re hiking alone, let someone know your plan.

For first-timers, hiking with a friend or group can help it feel less intimidating. Plus, it’s more fun to spot birds, compare trail snacks, or just enjoy the view together.

And remember, small things like staying on marked trails and packing out your trash help protect the places we all love to visit. Hiking can be a joyful, low-impact way to recharge, reconnect, and breathe a little easier.

Remodel Your Bath or Shower, Revamp Your Morning

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can help transform your bath or shower from outdated and boring to elegant and timeless.

Right now we are waiving all installation costs plus no interest and no payments for up to one year.

Some installs may take longer. With purchase and installation of any complete bath/shower system from participating third-party Jacuzzi Bath Remodel dealer in your area ("Dealer"). Offer and options will vary by Dealer/location. Not combinable with other offers. Add’l terms apply. Subject to change. Expires 12/28/25. †Financing offer available through third-party lenders under terms of applicable loan program. No interest for 12 months if paid in full within 12 months. Interest will be charged to you from purchase date if purchase balance is not paid in full within 12 months. Subject to credit approval—not all buyers will qualify. Add’l terms apply. See or call Dealer for details.

Thank you to Jacuzzi Shower for sponsoring The Canopy.

Quick Picks:

From park escapes to breathtaking trails, check out this week’s top nature-inspired picks:

Reflections:

🌎 True or False: True! Research shows it can lower cortisol levels.

🌅 Sunset Of The Day: The sun can provide the most beautiful photography. That's why we're eager to see your favorite sunrise or sunset photos. Reply to this email with your best sun-based pictures for a chance to be featured!