Under the warm sun of the first day of June, a diverse group of 23 hikers - families, friends and strangers - gathered at the picturesque Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve for Saved by Nature’s second community hike. Saved by Nature, a Bay Area-based nonprofit established in 2018, is dedicated to bridging people of all backgrounds, ethnicities and abilities to the outdoors. The group was warmly welcomed by Richard Tejeda, the founder, executive director and guiding force of Saved by Nature, who set the tone for the day with his soothing wooden flute melodies, creating a space of healing and grounding.
The journey began on the Cordilleras and Dusky-Footed Woodrat trails, winding through the Hassler Loop and covering a distance of nearly 4 miles. Along the way, the hikers were treated to the sight of vibrant globe lilies, the sweet scent of pacific blackberries and the intriguing nests of the dusky-footed woodrat. The shared experience of the group, as they marveled at nature’s beauty and shared their feelings of awe, was a testament to the power of community in enhancing the outdoor experience.
Tejeda’s emphasis on mental health and well-being is evident throughout the day. From a vista viewpoint, he guides a Qi Gong breathing exercise saying, “Breathe in and harness the energy of the fogbelt coming in from the Santa Cruz Mountains, all of that positive energy... breathe out and push out all the negativity out, give it to the environment.” The group collectively breathes in time with Tejeda’s mantra as their tension falls away and is replaced with the calming sounds of nature around them.
Tejeda believes that hiking can have a life-changing impact, and the participants lovingly share how Saved by Nature has positively influenced their lives. One member mentions his special needs daughter, who finds community and a connection to nature in the hikes. Another explains the sense of safety and community she gains as someone who lives alone. Feelings of gratitude and abundance are palpable for everyone in the group as they reflect on having these spaces to build relationships and connect to the outdoors.