Hiking- a journey of the mind…

Every hike is a new mental journey intertwined with nature for me. Do you feel that experience? As I leave the trailhead I hear the wind rustle the leaves, a bird singing over my right shoulder, and then my mind begins to focus on the sounds while I breathe in the fresh air. As I continue to hike along my chosen path my senses really begin to tune in to my surroundings. Colors start to appear sharper, I begin to notice the slightest movements, shapes, sounds become more crisp and clear, I’m mentally focused, yet relaxed. It’s then I begin to notice that everything I touch feels real, not man-made, textured and yet soothing as I admire the ruggedness of it all.

It’s those first few moments at the beginning of a hike where I feel that I become a part of nature, the way mankind is supposed to be. It’s powerful, or at least it is for me. Now my journey along the trail becomes whatever I want at this point, my mind is clear and I can leave my day to day issues behind, or I can be laser focused and solve the world’s problems, so to speak. Sometimes I do both. Then there are times I reminisce with thoughts of my youth, or plan the next steps of my future. Some of my greatest ideas have come to me when I’m hiking.

Are you with me so far? Isn’t it amazing? Hiking, being outside, and exploring the earth. Having you inner being dialed in. More often than not, this inner childhood feeling of exploration begins to take hold of me when I’m out on the trail. I feel strong and I want to challenge myself mentally and physically. I rarely stay on designated trails, I’m driven to climb nearby boulders and rock formations, yes, I’m that guy.

The great thing about hiking is leaving civilization, the strict rules, congestion and all that noise. When I’m hiking, there are no restrictions that would affect my mental journey. My mind and body crave the freedom to roam and explore.

Hiking gives me that freedom.

“As I leave the trailhead I begin another Journey of the mind”

J.B. – John Belanger