A nonprofit has found the right combination for healing.

Pam Marino here, planning on a nice walk today after a week of mostly sitting at my desk staring at a screen so I can reconnect with nature and destress. As you’ve probably heard many times before, nature and exercise are extremely beneficial, both physically and mentally.

That prescription of nature combined with movement has proved especially helpful to people suffering from mental health challenges, including anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder, which is why there are a number of groups that are helping veterans through such activities as equine healing and surfing.

One group, Project Healing Waters Monterey, is introducing fly-fishing to veterans, as reported by my colleague Katie Rodriguez in this week’s edition of the Weekly. 

She interviewed one of the participants, Les Reeves, who said fly-fishing is the only thing that’s been able to calm his ADHD and PTSD. 

“Some people find God. I found fly-fishing,” he said.

Reeves became fascinated by the process of tying his own flies, learning about the different bugs that attract fish and how the right flies at the right time of year can result in a successful catch.

I invite you to read Rodriguez’s story and learn more about how the local chapter of national nonprofit Project Healing Waters is helping disabled veterans and active-duty personnel find some peace through an activity that combines focus, physical activity and nature, a perfect combination for healing.