How Solo Travel Helped Me Overcome Depression and Find a New Purpose in Life and it also helped me overcome my Anxiety and found Peace and Serenity in the Mountains.
Journeying Alone: Discovering the Power of Independence and Self-Reflection.
As I reflect on my journey as a solo traveler, exploring the wondrous beauty " The place of wonder" and navigating the challenges of mental health, I am grateful for every moment and the discovery of a new source of healing energy.
Hiking in the hills and mountains for the first time was a YOLO (you only live once) moment for me. I remember feeling nervous and excited all at the same time, not knowing what to expect. As I started walking up the steep terrain, my heart raced, my breathing became heavy, and my legs ached. But then, as I looked around, I was struck by the sheer beauty of the mountains around me. I felt a sense of calm and peace wash over me that I had never experienced before.
If you're unfamiliar with the term, hiking is an outdoor activity that involves walking on well-maintained trails or paths for a few hours. It is typically a leisurely activity that can be enjoyed by people of all fitness levels. Trekking, on the other hand, involves covering longer distances over more challenging terrain and requires more physical endurance and specialized equipment.
Past Breakout - What made me to Travel solo.
I was going through a very difficult time in my life, struggling with depression, anxiety, self-doubt, and feeling lonely and left zero EQ with no sense of felling at all. The weight of these emotions became too much to bear, leading to a mental breakdown.
At that time in my life, I find myself in a place of discomfort and dissatisfaction. It can feel like nothing is going right, and I see no way to improve my situation. This can be especially true if we are in a job that feels overwhelming, with responsibilities that weigh heavily on us. In this state, I felt useless, hunched over with physical and emotional pain, and looking much older than my years.
During such times, I feel like I need to hide my emotions and not express my feelings. However, this can be a mistake, as it can make us feel even more isolated and disconnected from others and I continued to suffer in silence, it can lead to even more serious health issues such as constant headaches, poor diet, lack of proper sleep, and mental and emotional breakdowns. At this point, seeking professional help from doctors or physical therapists becomes crucial.
The crushing weight of my suffering was unbearable, yet I carried it alone, with no one to offer solace or aid. The agony of both my physical and mental health was ignored by those around me, as if my pain were a mere inconvenience to be swept under the rug. Not a single person bothered to inquire about my well-being, to offer a kind word, or even a sympathetic ear.
The stark reality was that no one cared, not until my struggles began to impact their own lives. And yet, despite the overwhelming isolation and neglect, I clung to the one thing that had kept me going: patience. It was a skill I had learned through hardship and pain, and it was the only thing that remained as everything else fell apart.
I was a mere shell of myself, with no semblance of routine or structure in my life. My eating habits were erratic, my sleep was non-existent, and I had lost touch with my own family and friends. But even in the depths of my despair, I refused to let go of hope. I knew that one day, the clouds would part, and the sun would shine on me once more. So I waited, with bated breath and a heart heavy with pain, for the good days to come.
A solo journey is the perfect time to find yourself.
Exploring the Roots of Suffering - Unpacking the Reasons Behind Life's Hardships
It's not uncommon for us to take our professional lives very seriously and work hard to achieve our goals. But sometimes, we can become so consumed with our professional success that it starts to take over our personal lives. However, sometimes we can get so caught up in the pursuit of success that we forget to take care of our mental health. This is what happened to me. I was so focused on achieving my professional goals that I neglected my own well-being. When I failed to meet those goals, I became a slave to my failures and started to believe that I was a failure myself.
As an introvert, I didn't have many connections or people I could talk to about what I was going through. I felt like a failure when I couldn't achieve the professional goals I set for myself. Despite accepting my mistakes, I couldn't escape the overwhelming pressure of meeting those goals, and it started to impact every aspect of my life. I lost my connection with family and friends, and eventually, it felt like there was no meaning left in my life.
I hope my experience serves as a reminder that while it's essential to have professional goals, it's equally important to prioritize our mental health and maintain a healthy work-life balance. We should reach out for help when we need it, and not let our goals become so overwhelming that they start to impact our lives negatively.
Always Remember, Professional goals are always temporary.
Learn to work harder on yourself than you do on your jobs.
Top Five Risks of Mental Health
Reduced quality of life
Physical health problems
Social isolation
Financial difficulties
Increased risk of suicide
Recipes of Healing - What Action I took to promote self-care and Mental Health (Mental Recovery)
After Certain instances happened with my life, I decided to take a break and engage in activities that can help clear my minds and improve my outlook on life and might help to see with another perspective of life. I planned to travel solo or hiking in the mountains. which was really the best decision of my life which helped me rewire my nerve and helped me thinking to find solutions to my problems and which turned out to be a life-changing experience for me.
During my hike, I was able to detach myself from all the stress and worries that had been weighing me down. I was able to reconnect with nature and enjoy the beauty that surrounded me. The fresh air, the stunning views, and the quietness of the mountains helped me relax and re-energize myself.
As I walked, I found myself reflecting on everything that had happened in my life, and I started to see things in a different light. I realized that I had been holding onto negative emotions that were preventing me from moving forward. I was able to let go of those emotions and start to think more clearly about what I needed to do to improve my situation.
This experience helped me heal emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. I felt a renewed sense of purpose and a greater appreciation for life. It also helped me recover physically as I was able to get some exercise and fresh air, which made me feel better physically.
Since that hike, hiking has become a part of my life, and I make it a point to go on regular hikes whenever I can. It has become a way for me to maintain my mental and emotional well-being, and I feel grateful for the positive impact it has had on my life.
Nothing is Perfect in this Universe.
Top Five Mantra to Overcome Mental Health
Seeking professional help and treatment from a mental health provider.
Making lifestyle changes, such as practicing regular exercise and a healthy diet.
Building a strong support system with friends and family.
Engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as hobbies or mindfulness practices.
Learning and practicing coping skills, such as deep breathing and positive self-talk.
Lifelong Memories - Solo Experience
I chose to embark on a solo trip, trekking and traveling alone in the mountains. This decision was motivated by a desire to find peace and recover my mental and physical health. Over time, I began to rediscover their sense of purpose and passion for life. I found solace in the beauty of nature and the challenge of trekking through the mountains, which helped me focus my mind and gain a new perspective on my situations.
Through this experience, I was able to overcome my depression and anxiety and regain my self-confidence and sense of worth. I learned that I were capable of facing and overcoming my struggles and also knew my power of Independence and Self-Reflection, and that there was still so much beauty and joy to be found in life.
find a sense of calm and clarity that can be hard to come by in our busy lives. This journey of self-discovery and healing is not always easy, but it is always worth it.
Re Continue - Lets come back to my Hiking Journey
This first hiking experience helped me to recover my mental peace, which had been impacted by various life events. Being in nature, surrounded by the beauty of the mountains, helped me to forget my troubles and just focus on the present moment. It was a cathartic experience that allowed me to process my emotions and clear my mind.
Hiking Experience - My First Hiking experience
Since that first hiking experience, I have made it a point to go hiking regularly. It has become my go-to activity for finding mental peace and clarity. Hiking not only benefits me mentally, but it also helps me to stay physically fit and healthy. It has become an essential part of my life that I cannot imagine living without.
Hiking Conclusion - Finishing Point
In conclusion, my first hiking experience in the hills and mountains was a YOLO moment that impacted my whole life. It helped me to find mental peace, recover from the challenges in my life, and made me realize the importance of hiking. I encourage everyone to try hiking at least once, as it can be a life-changing experience.
Lessons and Takeout
In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming and chaotic, there is nothing quite like the peace and tranquility of the mountains. For those who love nature, hiking through the breathtaking landscapes of the great outdoors can be a truly transformative experience. It allows us to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with ourselves and the world around us.
Through the physical challenge of hiking, we push ourselves beyond our limits, discovering our own inner strength and resilience. And in the stillness of nature, we find a sense of calm and clarity that can be hard to come by in our busy lives. This journey of self-discovery and healing is not always easy, but it is always worth it.
So, if you're a nature lover seeking to find self-love and healing, lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails. Let the beauty of the mountains guide you on your journey, and trust that you will emerge stronger, more centered, and more connected to yourself and the world around you.
In summary, life can be challenging, and we all face difficult times at some point. It's essential to seek help when we need it, and to take care of ourselves physically, emotionally, and spiritually. We must find healthy ways to cope with stress and negative emotions, and to engage in activities that bring us peace and fulfillment.
Thank You for Reading Out!
Must-Have Trekking Gears for First-Time Hikers and Trekkers
Backpack: A good backpack is essential for carrying all of your gear on your trek. Look for a backpack that is comfortable to wear, has enough space for all of your essentials, and is durable enough to withstand the elements. TRAWOC 80L Travel Backpack for Outdoor Sport Camp Hiking Trekking Bag Camping Rucksack HK007 (PARENT) 1 Year Warranty [Buy on Amazon] Wildcraft 45 Ltrs Black Rucksack (8903338073840) (Extra Large Size) [Buy on Amazon] Wildcraft Alpinist 55 Ltrs Orange Rucksack (8903338000877) [Buy on Amazon] TRAWOC 65 Liter Internal Frame Camping Trekking Hiking Backpack Travel Bag Front & Top Loading Rucksack/Water Proof Rain Cover/Shoe Compartment, HK011 [Buy on Amazon]
Trekking shoes or boots: Hiking shoes or boots are important to protect your feet and ankles on the trail. Look for shoes that are supportive, have good traction, and are waterproof. Bacca Bucci SNOWBALL 6 inches Moto Inspired Mountaineering Backpacking Hiking/Trekking outdoor boots for men for Beginners [Buy on Amazon] Bacca Bucci Men's HUNTER 6 inches Hiking/Snow boots for men for outdoor Trekking - non slip, Water Proof, Anti-Fatigue, Comfortable & Light weight [Buy on Amazon] Bacca Bucci Men's Trekking Shoe [Buy on Amazon]
Trekking poles: Trekking poles can help with balance and stability on the trail, especially on uneven terrain. They can also help to reduce the impact on your joints, especially on descents. Carbon Fiber Hiking Poles, Good Impact Toughness Collapsible Hiking Poles Anti Slip Handle for Snowfield(Men's red) [Buy on Amazon] UCRAVO Folding Cane with Led Light- Non-Slip Grip Handle for Men & Women,Collapsible Walking Stick,Adjustable Walking Cane Base for Hiking Camping Black [Buy on Amazon]
Clothing: Dress in layers so that you can adjust to the changing temperatures on the trail. Be sure to bring a rain jacket and waterproof pants in case of rain. TREKMONK Men's Loose Convertible Cargo Trekking Pants [Buy on Amazon] GOKYO Unisex Trekking Pant Windproof Fleece Lining for Cold Conditions - Sherpa Series [Buy on Amazon] Tripole Men's Regular Fit Polyester Trekking and Hiking Pants and Trousers [Buy on Amazon]
Food and water: Bring plenty of food and water to stay hydrated and energized on the trail. Pack snacks to keep your energy levels up between meals.
These are the essential trekking gears that you need to have for a safe and enjoyable trek. If you are a first-time trekker, I recommend that you start with a shorter and easier trek. This will give you a chance to get used to trekking and to test out your gear.
Here are some additional tips for first-time trekkers:
Pack light so that you are not weighed down by your gear.
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Bring plenty of food and water.
Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back.
Be aware of the weather conditions and dress accordingly.
Take breaks when you need them.
Enjoy the experience!
Hiking is a great adventure to forget the worldy pleasures and realize how tiny we are infront of those lush green life giving mountains , therefore climbing one gives immense feeling of joy , proud and relaxation.
Nature teaches us to give without expecting in return , the qualtiy which we human need in todays world i.e. being generous.
Loved your blog !!! Waiting for more adventurous blogs from your past hiking experiences regarding what difficulty you faced , how a beginner interested in hiking can start his/her journey. Keep growing 😀.
I think this story is more heart touching..and many of us can relate with us,we don't know and we can't predict what the other person is going through in his life,so please be kind to others,where kindness there goodness,so we can learned many lessons from this story, and give some time and prioritize your personal health..at the end what matters most is your health only, because the world stops for no one,if we are live or alive, neither in the workplace, neither in any kind of relationship, with time passes everyone will move forward in his life with or without you,so why not take responsibility and full control of your life,and surrender to divine for healing and guidance,and also do…
Hiking indeed impacted positively on you. The sense of relief is reflected through your choice of words. And I hope it continues create the same magic for you.