Musings of a solo walker

It's not something I've ever thought about before, but walking miles and miles on your own, means a LOT of time in your own head! Sometimes I listen to music, sometimes a podcast and often nothing, just the sounds of my surroundings.

What I have discovered is it's actually a time when I can shut my brain off. The only other time I can really do that is when I'm painting (rooms, not on canvass!!). I've tried meditation but the sitting still and trying to stop random thoughts from barging their way into the peace and quiet is almost impossible, and honestly, boring! 😩 I love that people can meditate and I completely agree that it is really good for you, as on the rare occasion I have mastered it, I have felt amazing afterwards, if I haven't fallen asleep!

Walking has therefore become a way to let my mind rest for a short while, which as anyone who knows me well, knows that doesn't happen much. 

It's also a time to practise mindfulness and really being in the moment. That's never more needed than when faced with a big climb! That is when it's time to focus on each step, not what's after that, or what might come next, or when it might end! It takes practice and I'm bringing the skill into my daily life and work. It definitely helps with reducing stress and feeling calmer.

One of the biggest advantages I have found in this brain down time, is the ability to think more clearly and make decisions once my brain fires up again. I can definitely recommend it. 

Back to a trek around the SW coast path tomorrow with Martin this time so no doubt we will be chatting about all sorts of crap🤣🤣 Just over a week now till we walk the 3 Yorkshire peaks, starting to feel a little nervous and apprehensive. I'll be back next week before the trip with a quick update. 

I the meantime, here's the latest pics from the SW coast path between Maiden combe abd Shaldon. This weather has been so magnificent and I am so lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the world. 



And finally, before I go, I got my Breast Cancer Now t-shirt 🩷


See you next week

Kimmie

xxx



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