Trekking the Annapurna Circuit - August 27th, 2019

In the past 13 days, I have been hiking the Annapurna Circuit Trek and it has been as much an inner journey as it has a physical one. During days where I felt strong, I enjoyed every single moment; from all the mountains, waterfalls, plants, birds, and all the spectacular views within this Himalayan region, to the company of other trekkers that I would occasionally meet, as well as feeling gratitude for being healthy in mind, body, and spirit that has allowed me to progress through my path thus far. While on other days, it was a challenge and my attention would reach only as far as the preceding steps ahead of me as I focused on keeping my willingness and energy to keep moving forward. While reaching either the highest point and/or completion of the trek seems like the moments to be most remembered, much like life, all the lessons, challenges, growth, memories, and people I met along the way were during the journey.

I began the Annapurna Circuit as a solo trekker and decided to go without a guide. Ironically, by the end of the trek, I walked out with 11 guides as I had cross paths with a wonderful group during the last few days who had been travelling together for the past 3 months in a leadership/trekking guide program. I was welcomed into the group and shared my knowledge of plants and their medicinal uses as we would come across them during the hike. Their keen interest in plants as medicine motivates me to continue expanding my knowledge as I hope to continue raising my ability to support others through herbal medicine.

I have never felt so completely free. Without the security of a stable home and job, I have been discovering everything outside of that 'Comfort Zone' which often hold us back to so many opportunities. While all the feelings of uncertainty are still felt, when we force ourselves to move forward, we often quickly adapt so that we are able to thrive.

Thanks to each one of you who keep an interest in following throughout my travels and offerings of encouragement and support. Looking forward to sharing more ahead!