Thriving together in a mountain town
By Kaley Burns EBS COLUMNIST
Perched high above the chaos of city life, this mountain town offers more than just stunning views—it provides a lifestyle rooted in nature and community. Our town is uniquely equipped with multiple practitioners that we can turn to for holistic practices that support immune function and overall wellbeing, making health a shared commitment built into the rhythm of mountain life.
Living in the mountains provides built-in immune support. Remote mountain communities benefit from cleaner air and lower pollution. Living at higher elevations encourages the body to adapt by producing more red blood cells and improving oxygen efficiency—both vital to cardiovascular and immune health.
Nature also provides us with daily medicine.
Surrounded by forests, peaks and rivers, we have direct access to natural stress relief. Studies show that time in nature lowers cortisol levels, enhances immune cell activity, and promotes emotional balance.
The Japanese concept of shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing,” perfectly describes what we can experience every day: nature as a therapeutic space for mind and body.
Our lifestyle can benefit from integrative healing practices, such as acupuncture to balance the body’s energy.
Acupuncture is more than pain relief—it’s preventive care. By stimulating meridian points, acupuncture improves circulation, regulates the nervous system and reduces inflammation.
Treatments help us to stay balanced through winter, when the immune system is more vulnerable.
Structural wellness treatments, including massage and chiropractic care, can reduce stress, inflammation and lower stress hormones. See Healing Hands, Windy Ridge or other local massage therapists in the community.
Another way to support immune resilience is IV therapy. Administered by trained professionals, IV nutrient infusions deliver hydration, vitamins and minerals directly to the bloodstream.
Common immune support formulas include Vitamin C, zinc, B-complex, and magnesium—ideal during flu season, post-illness recovery or periods of fatigue.
Health care treatments are valuable, but community is the hidden strength of mountain wellness. It’s not just social, it’s part of the health care system.
Shared experience builds emotional resilience, and organizations like Wellness In Action leading the charge. Similarly, group wellness activities like hiking clubs, yoga or breathwork circles promote consistency and support. BASE is a good resource to find that community through fitness.
At home, neighborly care including rides to an appointment or check-ins during snowstorms can foster connection and reduce stress.
Holistic health in a mountain town is a shared elevation of wellbeing. As a community we create a powerful foundation for immune resilience.
Dr. Kaley Burns is a licensed Naturopathic Physician providing a wide range of services for her clients, including: Naturopathic Medicine, IV Nutrient Therapy, Regenerative Injections, Rejuvenation Therapies, Vitamin Shots, and Nutrition Counseling. She embraces a natural approach to health and aims to similarly inspire and guide others on their health journey.
