QOTM

Is there anything more gratifying than a view from the top of a mountain you have just pushed yourself to the limit to conquer?

It turns out, I quite like climbing big hills and it has its benefits—not just on the body but also the mind.

Granted, it has taken a couple of years of being dragged up them to finally associate the word "enjoyment" with hiking, but I think I am finally there!

After moving to Liverpool in 2015, I have been fortunate enough to take part in several hiking adventures, one of them being where I said "Yes" to marry Kev!

Being only an hour or so drive away from North Wales & Snowdonia, The Peak District & The Lakes, it has never been easier to just pack a bag for the day, grab my walking boots, and choose a route.

The best thing is also having friends that share your enthusiasm for a good walk!

So far, this is the list of mountains where I have left my footprints:

• Kilimanjaro in 2013
• The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 2014
• Cadair Idris
• Tryfan
• Helveylln
• Snowdon (too many times)
• The Trans-Pennine Trail
• Pen Y Fan
• Moel Famau
• Red Screes

With many more still to come… one being Yosemite National Park which Kev and I have planned for our honeymoon!

There is something so peaceful about being out in nature. I have been battered by rain, wind, hail, and blazing sunshine and sometimes this is just in one hike, but it never takes away the sheer wonder of the outdoors.

Each step feels like a cleanse, each breath; a wash of calm and all to be finished with a massive sense of achievement when you reach that summit.

I find the best thing about mountain hiking is the fact that you don’t have time to worry about anything—maybe some nerves depending on the hike but no anxiety! You live purely in the present—every step, breath, and rock dodged. It’s a complete detox for the mind, body, and soul.

As well as Zumba, I find that hiking is really the only other exercise that I do like and look forward to—even though my face doesn’t show it for most of the walk!

It is the perfect opportunity to reflect, spend time with friends and loved ones, and to help truly look after your wellbeing.

Here are some brief tips if you are considering going on a walk/hike:

• Prepare for all weathers—remember: there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing!
• Make sure you carry enough food and water just in case there are any unplanned de-tours.
• Start small! If you have never climbed before, make sure to start on with an easy, short route then build up gradually. Research your hike and choose a route that you feel comfortable with.

A website that I use quite often for routes is Trekking Britain—the posts also contain difficulty ratings and comprehensive directions which can be a useful tool. I tend to screenshot the page on my phone so even when signal is bad, it is still accessible.

Buy some good walking shoes/boots! To avoid injury mainly, I would recommend buying a decent pair of shoes for walking! The terrain can be unpredictable and can vary immensely depending on the route so do your feet and ankles a favour and treat them well!

Happy Climbing!