HEALTH
words by MONICA KRAMER MCCONKEY
photography by Eberhard Grossgasteiger on Unsplash.com
9 LIFE LESSONS
learned in the mountains
T
ravels and adventures lend themselves to expanding perspective. We are able to reflect on life while away from the whirlwind of schedules, career, todo lists and errands. Sometimes in that reflection we have moments of resolution. (When I get home … I’m going to slow down. I’m going to exercise regularly. I’m going to eat healthier. I’m going to meditate. Etc, etc.) And as with many resolutions, once life again consumes our waking hours, it is often the normal routine, a.k.a. the rut, that we fall back into. After experiencing many failed post-vacation resolutions, I resolved to gain life perspective versus change behavior — an exercise in mindfulness and contemplation.
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a r e a wom a n
| areawomanmagazine.com
After a recent week of hiking in the mountains, these were the nine life lessons that remained with me. 1. Look ahead. Adventure, opportunity, excitement, answers all lie ahead. Keep yourself focused forward so you can be ready for what comes next. 2. Be prepared. Wear layers. Anticipate outcomes and be ready. 3. There is no room for fear. That’s it. There is no room for fear. 4. Don’t allow the what-ifs to stop you. Things will go wrong — no question. See #2 and move forward. 5. The harder the climb, the better the view. Even if you reach the top in pain, with blisters, out of breath, and cursing the person who chose the trail, effort is worth it. Don’t give up, because over the next ridge could be the incredible view you’ve been waiting for.