I have been making time for hiking which has been really amazing. My jewelry is of the mountains, but I need to take time to be in the mountains to nourish my continued work on my business in addition to working full time. I tend to get stuck in the rut of getting things done. There are always things to do, and with my personality I will NEVER run out of things on my to do list. But taking time to enjoy myself is so important.
In the past several weeks I have hiked Hunger Mountain, for the first time, Camel’s Hump which I have hiked many times and Mount Abe which I remembered only when I was about halfway up. The hike up Hunger Mountain was a haul. It was hard. My muscles were sore. I felt out of shape. But getting to the top was such a wonderful reward.
Next was Camel’s Hump, which I hiked with my son and his friend. They flew up the mountain and patiently waited for me to catch up. There is a certain kind of fellowship that happens on the trails. An encouragement of strangers ‘You’re almost there!’ that happens that is really wonderful. And at the top it’s like an impromptu party of people who have never met.
My most recent hike was Mount Abe, and on my way up I was reflecting on why I hike. In the moment it can be hard, convincing yourself to continue upwards, and stepping again and again. But it gives me fortitude in other areas. I think in addition to the beautiful vistas I gain a determination in other areas of my life, because it is just as much a mental exercise as a physical one.
If you can, take some time to hike! You’ll be happy you did.
