After years of living with anxiety and depression, I discovered Mind Over Mountains through a chance recommendation on Strava. What began as one nervous step into the unknown has become four unforgettable wellbeing walks, helping me find calm, build confidence and reconnect with both nature and myself. If you're wondering whether to take that first step, I hope my story encourages you to give it a try.
I've attended four Mind over Mountain walks, two in Wales (one at Tintern and the other in Llanberis) and two in the Chilterns, one of which was around Chequers, where we were lucky enough to bump into the residing Prime Minister! Â
I came across the charity after I noticed a fellow runner from my local running group, Run Talk Run, had recorded a walk on the Strava app. They attached the link for the walk which they had attended, so I thought I'd take a look. Having always enjoyed the outdoors and always wanting to take on walks around the country, this looked like a safe way of doing so.
Having battled with my mental health over the years with depression and anxiety, getting out into nature seemed such a good and healthy idea for me. Â
Having such anxiety the week leading up to my first walk was helped by the zoom meet and greet a couple of days before. It helped put me at ease as there were no expectations or pressure from the leaders taking the walk.
I was still feeling anxious the morning of the walk, but the wellbeing team and walking guides were kind, gentle and really understanding and approachable.
The day itself was full of great conversation with the fellow walkers and guides, also with some great tips from the wellbeing team on how to help calm your mind and anxieties which I still use from time to time.
It was a really relaxing walking pace with plenty of stops to take in the natural surrounding and also take some time out on your own to just be quiet and still, which I never take time out to do at home.
By the end of the day being surrounded by nature, it helped calm any anxieties I'd had at the start of the day. It also has made me try and slow down and take in my surroundings back home, whether it would be simply listening to the wildlife around me or taking notice in the landscape in front of me without any interfering thoughts which cloud my mind.Â
The walks certainly helped me reset, clear my mind and calm any racing thoughts I had.  Although tired from each walk, it gave me a massive sense of achievement and clarity.  I simply couldn't recommend a walk with Mind Over Mountains enough to anyone who needs a break from the daily grind, whether it be just a days walk or a longer retreat, I'm certainly glad that I stumbled across their website. Can't wait for walk number five!Â
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