15 weeks continued....

Midday Moment

Steps stepped 8,250

Now yesterday was the 15-week milestone of our departure and I’ve been thinking, “How ready am I for this adventure?”

Great question! Now the preparations are three fold really. There is: physical readiness, mental training and logistics involved. I figure I’ve got all my bases covered with those three elements. Or have I missed something? Let’s explore….

Physical readiness – I am loving this pedometer. It has proven to be a useful total tool that helps me measure and keep me accountable. I walk far more than the daily 10,000-step minimum. In fact, I feel pretty good about the distance I can cover and have committed to doing one long distance per week 15+km. This weekend was my first go at this excess distance and I’m happy to report the repercussions were minimal. I have a tender left heel and a little soreness in my calves but can still stand upright  One area that warrants improvement is my weight. I need to shed some fat as I am putting my body/joints under excessive stress. The fact is – the leaner I can be, the more pleasant this journey will be.

Mental training – is a tricky subject. I mean what’s it involve really? And is it important? My point of view is that it is absolutely essential. The nature of the adventure calls for it as we’re engaging in 1 month + of walking - day in and day out. I have opted to train without distractions like ipods thus far and will continue to do so. Also, I have decided to refrain from reading multiple books on the Camino to keep my experience MINE. I don’t want to jam “woulds”, “shoulds” and “coulds” into my brainspace. I want to keep my mind clutter free in order to invite deep reflection and introspection while I wander through France, Spain and Portugal. In addition, sometimes the best part of voyages is discovering sites purely by chance. Splendid surprises will surely abound.

Logistics – the details surrounding the adventure. Bookings, flights, reservations, accommodations etc etc. I have to admit that I have been a little lax in that department. I guess because of my previous travels I know that things work out so it’s best not to fret too much. Backpackers rule – “Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff”. The most important details to consider are 1) Where am I sleeping tonight? 2) What am I eating? That’s it! Getting back to the basics! I LOVE traveling for that exact reason. You don’t complicate matters with a ridiculous “to do list” like in “real life”.
However, a friend brought up a relevant point - best to book the first couple of nights to sleep well and start off “on the right foot”. I reckon that’s sensible.

In a nutshell, I’m not too worried at this stage. The countdown is keeping me grounded and aware of the escapade that awaits me in September.

End of day – (well walking wise) 14,175 steps

Walk on!