One of my personal goals was a multi day hike. I enjoyed hiking when I was in my early 20s but then I didn't do any until 8 years ago. This was directly related to joining Kung Fu and for that I am eternally grateful because I love hiking. Multi day hikes not only test your endurance and stamina but also your mental strength. There is always a time that you think "I can't go any further", it usually comes after tripping over the last root that you just didn't have the strength to lift your foot over, but you dig down and continue on and lift that foot a little higher.
Last year I even started making our own hiking meals and really enjoyed that process. This year I added more recipes, including dehydrated yogurt for breakfast. I enjoy knowing exactly what is in my meal, the science of dehydrating and weighing to make sure you know how much to rehydrate. I've done Butter Chicken and Rice, Shephards Pie, GF Spaghetti and sauce, Sweet and Spicy Cashew Chicken and Rice, and Chili and all of these have turned out really well. Hiking allows for my "control freak" to be let loose and I really enjoy that.
I like to take time to stop and enjoy the views, being grateful that I am able to be there physically and mentally. Knowing that many people will never see these views. This year I embraced the similarities between my hike and my Kung Fu journey. Really focusing on the journey not just the destination.
I was even able to find a nice sandy spot that I could get some setups and pushups done alone the way. 😀
Every hike comes with new experience and learning. This year was doing creek crossings that you needed to take your boots off, watching changes in water levels and planning around them, and blister care. You meet people who are like minded and supportive. You share information, adjust for challenges, learning along the way, and keep forging forward with a positive attitude. Is that not the same qualities needed in Kung Fu?
See you on the mats!
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