A Birthday Hike - Values and Metaphors … 

I had a birthday last week! My recent tradition I started a few years back is taking a longer hike on my own for my birthday. This year, I found a section of The Devil’s Path in the Catskill mountains. It was a cold and snowy day, with occasional moments of sunshine. The Path was super challenging and I loved every moment. 

 

Here’s why I love hiking:  It’s an activity that touches on many of my values at once and also provides opportunities to gain insights about myself. 

  • Connecting with Nature

  • Challenging myself 

  • Practicing mindfulness

  • Seeking adventure 

  • Appreciating solitude

  • Being Present - In the flow 

I know I’m in the flow when I’m plodding up a steep snowy hill, with my heart pounding and legs fatigued, and yet I’m appreciating the beauty around me - and I’m smiling. 

It’s also an activity in which I get inspired and learn more about myself. Here’s what I do:

I notice what’s on my mind and then I notice what draws my attention either in my body or in the environment, and then I ask “How is this like that?” 

How is the soreness in my foot like the project I’m trying to complete? 

Or 

How is the wind like my financial concerns right now? 

And as weird as it sounds, the metaphor often brings about new perspectives. 

The wind was fierce that day, and yet I was protected amidst the trees. Just the sound of the wind made me anxious and yet, in that moment, I was feeling warm and fine. If I focused too much on my worry about the harsh wind, I might miss the enjoyment and fun of this hike… Maybe just like with a particular financial worry, I was actually protected in the moment. And if I  worried too much about it, I might miss the opportunities and experiences right in front of me. 

What about you? 

Maybe hiking isn’t your thing, but what’s out there that brings many of your values together at once. What do you do that inspires, humbles, and illuminates your essential self? 

I’m obsessed right now with helping people identify new perspectives and ways of moving in the world. Ways that align one’s values with the pursuit of moving freely and living fully. 

If you’re curious about receiving some coaching on aligning your body and life, let’s get on a free consultation call!

And hey, if you want to join me hiking in the next weeks, drop me an email!! 

"In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks. The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.” - John Muir

 
 


adventure, life coaching, MovementPatrick HoganComment