What if your journey could transform you in ways you never expected? Join me as I recount my solo adventure walking the Camino, where each step brought new insights and challenges. From pushing too hard on the first day to learning the art of lightening my backpack, I share the seven key lessons that shaped my pilgrimage. This journey might have fulfilled my pilgrimage craving, yet it sparked a curiosity for other trails in Japan and the Canary Islands.

Sometimes the path you plan isn't the path you take. Knee issues led me to switch from the coastal to the Central route, but with this change came unexpected rewards—new landscapes, diverse encounters, and the invaluable camaraderie of the Camino community. Embracing adaptability taught me more than just how to handle physical setbacks; it opened my eyes to the importance of kindness, shared experiences, and even reassessing my comfort levels with hostel accommodations. Every interaction along the way, from fellow solo travelers to larger groups, enriched this transformative journey.

Traveling solo is as much about discovering oneself as it is about exploring the world. This episode delves into the confidence gained through self-reliance and problem-solving on the Camino. These experiences made me rethink my future hiking goals, such as section hiking the Appalachian Trail. Journaling played a pivotal role in capturing these reflections, offering a peaceful escape from everyday stressors, and encouraging a deeper self-awareness. I also share practical advice for future pilgrims on physical preparation and the underestimated challenge of adapting to long-distance walking with a properly weighted pack.

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