It’s been 8 years since I grabbed that pair of trainers and ventured out into the hills on my first hike. I was 38, had lived in London most of my life, worked a sedentary job and suffered health issues. This situation had become my “normal” and I soldiered on with my daily routine, balancing my time between work and family. I was thankful for what I had and the people around me but I was not happy.
On that first hike in the Surrey Hills, I found a spot up high and just stood there watching the beautiful sunrise. Being on my own gave me a chance to think and, being an over-thinker, I thought long and hard. The only way I would become happy would be to shift my mindset and actively do something to change my situation. It’s an obvious thing to say now but at the time it took me a while to work it out. I promised myself I would head out again the following weekend for another hike. Just to see what would happen…
Over time, my stamina for hiking increased, I lost weight and became much fitter. I started hiking for longer, discovered national trails, the hills and mountains of the UK and trails abroad. Completing trails, the Wainwrights and various hiking challenges pushed me. I mixed it up with solo adventuring and small group trips with like-minded people. Social media complemented my newfound love for the outdoors and because of it, I embraced wild camping and backpacking too.
So am I happier now? Undoubtedly yes! The outdoors has made me more open-minded, accepting and resilient. It’s also given me the ability to take control of my physical health – in a way it’s saved me really. Now I balance my time between work, family and the outdoors. Anyone can go on the same journey. By shifting your mindset and embracing the outdoors, you become a better person. Better to yourself and to those around you.
