Walk & Get Inked for Mental Health Recap: 5/4/2025

Where Movement, Meaning, and Expression Come Together

In 2015, I climbed my first mountain.

I didn’t realize at the time how much that experience would change me, but it did. That hike introduced me to the healing power of nature, the connection of community, and the way movement could help untangle some of the most complicated parts of the mind. Since then, I’ve built my private practice on those same principles—believing in nature-based healing, authentic connection, and expression as a form of transformation.

In spring 2025, something powerful came together: the first Walk & Get Inked for Mental Health event. And it was so much more than just a walk or a tattoo appointment.

A Different Kind of Mental Health Awareness Event

This event was born from the idea that healing and connection don’t always happen in an office. Sometimes they happen while walking through nature. Sometimes they happen through art. Sometimes they happen side-by-side with someone who just gets it.

Participants walked the relaxing Middlesex Greenway, a paved trail in Metuchen, NJ, shared space and stories, and ended the experience at Iron & Pine Tattoo, where they could choose from a sheet of flash tattoos—thoughtfully designed pieces that included semicolons, "Let Them," nature-inspired designs, and other creative symbols that captured the artistry of the shop and the event’s theme.

Why Walk?

Walking has long been known to reduce anxiety, boost mood, and spark creative thinking. Nature adds another therapeutic layer—providing grounding, calming the nervous system, and fostering presence. I’ve seen firsthand, both in my work and in my own life, how powerful it can be to simply walk and talk.

This event offered an opportunity for movement, mindfulness, and meaningful connection with others—many of whom also work in mental health or have been personally impacted by mental health challenges.

Why Ink?

I’ve also been fortunate to experience the power of tattoos in my own life. For me, tattoos are a way to express who and what are important to me. They mark meaningful moments in life, honor people I’ve lost, and celebrate those who continue to inspire me. Tattooing can be a form of expression and healing—not just for me, but for so many others.

Iron & Pine Tattoo in Metuchen, NJ, was the perfect partner for this vision. I had the opportunity to collaborate with shop owner Carol Jacky (@caroljacky_tattoos), who shares a passion for authentic expression, quality work, and building community through art.

My brother, Matt—aka @mattlapp_tattoos—is one of the incredibly talented artists at Iron & Pine. I’m proud not just of his work, but of the heart and skill he brings to every piece he creates.

Other incredible artists who participated in the event include:
🎨 David Nassy – @DavidNassy_
🎨 Deanna – @vvxtattoos
🎨 Dom – @beantattoos_
🎨 Neekeh – @neekeh.tattoo

Each artist brought their unique style and care to the flash tattoos, creating options that reflected strength, self-expression, and identity. While flash tattoos are pre-designed, many participants chose pieces that held personal meaning for them—whether it was the semicolon (a symbol of mental health awareness and suicide prevention), a nature symbol to reflect growth and grounding, or simply a design that made them feel empowered.

Giving Back: HIKE for Mental Health

My journey into the healing power of nature began when I participated in my first hike in 2015, organized by HIKE for Mental Health (@hikeformentalhealth). This nonprofit organization raises awareness about mental illness, funds scientific research, and supports trail conservancy. Their mission—to promote the healing benefits of hiking while addressing mental health stigma—inspired me to explore how movement and nature can be integrated into my work with clients. To this day, I continue to support and walk in honor of their cause, grateful for how their mission helped shape my path.

💚 Together, we raised $3,480 for HIKE for Mental Health! Your generosity and participation will help support trail conservation and mental health research, ensuring that more people can find healing in nature—just like I did.

Shout-Out to the Small Businesses That Made This Possible

This event wouldn’t have been the same without the incredible support of local businesses that believe in mental health, community healing, and creative expression. A special thank you to:

🧘‍♀️ Yoga with Meg – @yoga_with_meg
🌱 Gemini Sisters Farm – @geminisistersfarm
🎨 Lilly Counseling and Art Therapy – @lilycounselingandarttherapy
🧴 MooieZ et pure – @mooiez.etpure
🌿 Deep Rooted Wellness & Creatives – @deeprootedwellnes
🌞 Good Vibes Fords – @goodvibesfords
🎉 Party Galore -N- So Much More – @party_glaore_n_so_much_more
✨ sMOOches Organics – @smoochesorganics / @yas.healing
💙 Mallory’s Army Foundation (Non-Profit) – @mallorys_army

Final Thoughts

Walk & Get Inked for Mental Health wasn’t just an event—it was a movement. A movement toward authentic connection. Toward healing through expression. Toward creating community around shared experience and the power of being seen.

If you joined us—thank you. If you're reading this and wondering if there’s space for you in the next one—the answer is yes.

A huge thank you to the amazing volunteers who came out to assist me throughout the day. Your energy, kindness, and support helped make this event flow beautifully, and I couldn’t have done it without you.

Let’s keep walking. Let’s keep expressing. Let’s keep healing—together.