I came across an advert for Mind Over Mountains on Facebook and felt it would be a nice way to reconnect to my adventurous side. Established walking groups felt daunting to me, but as this was a smaller group, it seemed a lot more intimate - and it was the combination of mindfulness in the outdoors that I was attracted to. I felt like it would be more than just a walk.  

I was nervous on the day. I was in a difficult place, very unsure of where I was going - I'd been diagnosed with depression and anxiety and felt really lost.  

One of the counsellors on the walk spoke about leaning into a process of remembering, bringing myself together and finding little bits of myself that I felt I'd lost over the years.  

It was helpful to have trained counsellors who were good at asking the kind of questions that allowed you to do that - I’d never allowed myself to be as open to people I’d never met before, until I found Mind Over Mountains. I came away from the experience wanting to be more active, feeling motivated to do more. 

Over the years I’ve struggled to get help - it felt like there wasn't really a solution that worked for me. After the walk, I decided to try life coaching with one of the trained coaches at Mind Over Mountains, and straight away the help I needed was recognised and acknowledged. I’m so grateful it was picked up on, rather than me having to reach out during a time where I just couldn't do so.  

The coaching over Zoom has really helped. It’s nice to know that there’s always someone I can connect with and that I’m not completely alone.  

The walks are chance to meet people, and to talk to them along the way. When you get to the high point it’s amazing to look back and see the progress you’ve made. The routes are carefully planned, and It’s always a surprise when you reach the starting point once more: is it really finished?!  

I don’t get chance to do much walking by myself. I’m a busy mum, so when I do walk, there isn't much time for reflection. That makes the time spent with Mind Over Mountains even more valuable to me.  

Connecting with other people is such a big part of it. It brought me back to me again, remembering who I used to be and how I used to be able to connect well with people from all walks of life. I’m really grateful for that.  

Being able to talk to someone who’s willing to listen and who can see me from a different perspective - not just ‘mum’- has helped push me forward. I’ve applied for jobs, been on interviews and been successful too.  

The whole experience has been empowering and invigorating - surrounded by compassionate people has made a huge difference.