Walking towards Mordor – The walk

Why does someone do this?

Once you start looking into it, you hear countless stories of people who hike the Appalachian Trail in search of a new beginning, whether it’s to discover a new career path, escape difficult life circumstances, or simply breathe fresh mountain air and gain a new perspective on life. There are novels and articles full of people who turn to the trail for their own kind of natural therapy, especially in the face of depression.

That is also part of my purpose.

For the past few years, I have been on a roller coaster of loss, grief, and depression, and I decided it was time to make a change.

I am at a crossroads in my life. Relating to relationships, work, and who I want to become. I’m still in the early stages of my recovery journey, but this felt like my version of leaving the shire and taking the long walk, step by step, toward something better.

Maybe not Mordor; But some days it is just as discouraging.

I’m trying to stay away from temptation while surrounding myself with a new, supportive, and genuinely healthy community. And I’ve already met some amazing people along the way.

Reasons why I hike:

1. To prove to myself and everyone concerned that I can and will do anything I set my mind to.
2. To end depression and get rid of general bad mood in life through nature therapy.
3. Regain confidence in myself and my sense of identity.
4. Focus on my mental health and my recovery journey.
5. Communicate with Gaia and strengthen that relationship.
6. Clean my lungs and quit nicotine.
7. To improve my general physical health.

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