Get to know Connor M. Moriarty, MA, LPC, and learn about the journey that led him to founding Reset Outdoors, a counseling center in Bethlehem that focuses on nature-centered well-being.
Tell us about your journey to founding Reset Outdoors. What inspired you?
In a word, burnout.
I was working at a local community mental health center that supports survivors of trauma… the clients were amazing. While their stories were often heartbreaking and horrifying, they were examples of powerful resilience and healing. The real issue was that the organization’s leadership was absolutely horrible (to put it mildly).
Thankfully, a friend invited me kayaking (an activity I love but had lost sight of whilst getting sucked into the burnout black hole), and after a few hours on the water, I was feeling better than I had in years. I remember a summer breeze brushing past me, skipping over the surface of the lake and continuing into the canopy of the trees on the other side, followed a few seconds later by the sound of rustling leaves coming back to us and I thought, wow, why on earth aren’t we doing this with our clients and colleagues?
Describe the philosophy behind “nature-centered well-being.”
Nature-centered well-being simply acknowledges that as humans we are inextricably linked to, and interdependent with, the natural world. We need the ecosystem, and it needs us (though arguably less than we need it!). The more we reconnect with the world around us, the healthier, more balanced and more fulfilled we become.
What does a typical counseling session look like for Reset Outdoors?
My immediate response to this is that there is no “typical” session. Firstly, sustainable change rarely occurs in one meeting. Secondly, just like individual people, teams, companies, organizations and communities are unique, and require nuanced and tailored approaches.
We pride ourselves on bringing our expertise into the place where our clients, both individuals and institutions, are currently, and working together to plot a trail to the destination of their choosing.
Is there a common thread that you've noticed amongst the individuals you coach?
No. Though most, but not all, recognize a need for change and a need for support in bringing those changes into their lives.
We also often find our clients are tired of “typical” methods that leave them feeling pushed into predetermined lanes that don’t consider them as amazing and unique individuals, families, teams, institutions, communities, etc.
What tools do you hope someone walks away with from a Reset Outdoors session?
We hope everyone that we work with leaves with at least three takeaways: (1) increased awareness—of self and the world around us (which includes other people!); (2) increased connection—internally with the parts of the systems that make us function and thrive, and connection with our ecosystem (which, again, includes the people we share space with at home, in our neighborhoods and at work); (3) reduced stress—a measurable, observable reduction in the stresses we carry all the time. A lot of subtle-yet-profound changes happen automatically when people feel less stress. It’s wonderful to see!
What would you say to someone who might be skeptical about the healing power of nature?
Don’t worry. Not everyone loves nature and being outdoors as much as us. Our job is to find what works for you. If being outdoors isn’t your thing, that’s OK! We’ll find your thing and help you understand how and why it works so that you can build confidence in its positive impact on your well-being.
What has your own health and wellness journey looked like?
I’m someone who loves intense exercise, especially contact sports, wrestling, rugby, martial arts (Jujutsu! Shout out to my fam at Inverted Gear Academy!).
And, also, I’m someone who is a trauma survivor and battles depression, insecurity and lack of confidence.
All in all, for me, the concept of “intentional awareness” has made such a difference.
Describe your morning routine. Is there anything you simply can’t start your day without?
In the morning, I love to get a good look at South Mountain, usually with my coffee and/or while brushing my teeth (though not at the same time). It’s an amazing part of our landscape that feels more and more like a friend.
How about your nighttime routine?
I really enjoy watching a show (or two) with Emily—especially when I get to choose the show. Drinking a glass of water and reading before bed helps me ease into sleep. And I’m noticing that my dreams are more memorable and interesting when I read versus when I don’t.
What are a few healthy habits you try to practice throughout the day?
Finding at least one subtle glimmer of gratitude or awe. Also, taking breaks—even better in fresh air, especially when I feel depleted (frequently!) and/or when I’m banging my head against the wall (or computer) trying to get more tedious or challenging tasks crossed off the list.
What is your preferred exercise?
Intentional walks, runs and kettlebell workouts, but mostly jujutsu—it’s cardio, flexibility, strength work and chess all in one.
What’s your favorite meal to make at home?
It’s a tie between pancakes and eggs or anything on/in homemade tortillas.
What are your favorite eateries and restaurants to visit in the Lehigh Valley for a good meal? What do you order?
At Tulum Restaurant in Bethlehem, my go-to is toasted almond burrito, chips and guac, and hot wings extra crispy.
At Biryani City in Allentown, I almost always get saag paneer, “American medium or hot,” with garlic naan and samosas.
What’s something that you love to indulge in?
There are three that immediately come to mind: (1) a nap—like a real one; (2) tequila/mezcal or peaty scotch, not in any order; (3) an oat milk cortado at Bonn Place or Lit Coffee. Simple excellence.
Where are some of your favorite places to visit in the Valley?
I’m writing this from the side of the Bushkill in Jacobsburg State Park… it’s truly a stunningly beautiful, peaceful and magical place.
Go outside! Get better.
What goals do you have for your personal wellness?
I’d like to be present and engaged fully with my family. Less stressed and busy. No more multitasking. Less phone and computer. I’d like to get in shape enough to enter more jujutsu tourneys… and my hope is to earn a black belt by the time I’m 52.
How do you stay motivated?
I love my family profoundly. I truly believe in the work that Emily, our team and I do, and love it deeply. It makes it so much easier to get out of bed, brush the ole teeth and get to work.
What’s one takeaway that you’d like to share?
Spending a cumulative total of two intentional hours outdoors a week does wonderful things to our overall well-being, including mental health and social health.
Go outside! Get better.
resetoutdoors.com
Published as “Living Well With” in the July 2024 edition of Lehigh Valley Style magazine.
