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Let’s start from the very beginning: what does it mean to go trekking? Well, it means planning the trail and studying the weather forecast, packing and picking the gear accordingly. It means preparing everything for the next morning, and then setting the alarm. Spoiler: it sucks. Most of the times, it will go off before 6 AM.
Then, a couple hours’ drive gets you to the start of the trail. You gear up and set the first foot. Let’s be honest: it still is no fun. You wonder why you agreed on such a madness once again. Nonetheless, as you keep going the feelings start to change: the heavy backpack, the sweat and the effort fade away, and the magic happens.
It’s the point when I get the chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with myself at a deeper level. I don’t check my phone, and I’m forced to deal with my thoughts – some say it is actually a form of meditation. On the trek, I’m only able to focus on the present: the next few steps, the next three meters ahead of me. While up on the mountains, I learned hiking does a few good things for me, and I’d like to share them with you.
It helps me develop patience: you can’t be too eager of reaching the destination. You can only think about the next step, and slowly but relentlessly move forward. I think it’s a good metaphor for life: only enjoying the destination is a waste of time, I want to enjoy the journey as well!
Moreover, trekking humbles me, and quiets my ego: as I start walking up the trail, surrounded by soaring rocks and towering trees, I realize how little I matter; I regain perspective over my problems.
Then, of course, there is the fulfilling beauty of the landscapes. The sun hitting different parts of the mountain in an ever changing play of lights and shadows, the vastness upon which your gaze gets lost, the shades of color. But beware: as Nietzsche said, if you stare into the abyss too long, the abyss will stare back into you.
And finally, after all the deep pondering and strong feelings, I’m always glad to reach the hut for a well-deserved cold beer!
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