Are you climbing a mountain?

Stepping away from the structured rhythm of work into uncharted territory can evoke a myriad of feelings. It seems almost absurd to struggle with the concept of not having a strict schedule but after all we are all creatures of habit, aren’t we?

I have been planning and prepping for upcoming travels. My first stop next week, is my third quest to see the Northern lights.  I have to admit, I am finding it slightly infuriating that everyone I mention this too seems to have seen them on first go, apparently they were just there. Also, every place I plan to visit, everyone I know has already visited.  

Queries from well-meaning friends and family members only served to intensify this need to fill every moment with ‘big things’… "Apart from traveling, are you going to do anything exciting like climb a mountain?" What! Excitement doesn't always need to manifest in extreme feats. While I've conquered my fair share of challenges—raising children, caring for aging parents, and pushing my physical limits in endurance events, I've come to understand that adventure can take many forms including the smallest things including meeting with friends, taking the dog for a walk and getting out of bed when I feel like it.

The decision to carve out time for myself wasn't a selfish indulgence; it was an essential act of self-care. This newfound freedom has granted me the opportunity to explore the road less travelled, enjoy precious moments with loved ones, and reclaim a sense of self that had been eclipsed by the demands of daily life.  I have loved my night-time photography course on Valentines day, London showed up in a big way!

So, while I may not be scaling mountains or embarking on epic adventures, I am just embarking on a course of self-exploration and renewal. In a world that glorifies ‘busyness’ and achievement, taking time to simply be is a rebellion worth embracing, don't you think?

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