One of the first questions people ask when they learn I am embarking on this adventure is, “Who are you doing it with?” I have always either traveled with family or friends, or I’ve traveled to visit family or friends. This time I’m doing neither. I’m venturing alone.
The easiest response is that I want to set my own pace physically. I’m covering a lot of distance over the three weeks I’ll be walking the Camino. I want the opportunity to set a pace that feels right to me: leave as early as I want in the mornings, take coffee breaks (yes, probably with an accompanying pastel de nata) as needed, and walk at a speed that is comfortable for me.
People who know me recognize that getting out in the fresh air for a hike is a draw for me. It helps center me, reduces stress, and brings me home smiling again after a trying day — a mix of emotional processing and release.
Beyond that, I’ll also be setting my own emotional and mental pace. After being both a business owner and a wife for thirty-two years and a mom for twenty-three, it has been a long time since I’ve only had myself to think about. For three weeks, I won’t be responsible for a business, a household, a family schedule, or anyone else’s needs; I’ll simply be responsible for myself. Adjusting to self-direction and self-reliance will be a mental shift, as well as getting comfortable with my own company. I look forward to waking up every day with no expectations of me other than lacing up my shoes and heading north.
Of course, I know that I will have the opportunity to meet other pilgrims on the trail, and I look forward to this aspect as part of the Camino journey. But as most pilgrims start in Porto, I will have eight days of hiking long distances from Tomar before reaching Porto where most new pilgrims begin their journey. I look forward to having time alone with my thoughts in the beginning, practicing mindfulness and savoring the moments alone without conversation. It’ll be a walking meditation of sorts.
I’m excited about all the physical, mental, and emotional challenges along the way, but I also hope you all will continue to follow along on my journey and root me on from wherever you are.
I’m walking alone, but I’d still love the encouragement of my tribe.