Here are some guidelines that work for me during everyday meditative walks and multi-day pilgrimages:
• Be a pilgrim rather than a tourist, recognising the divine in all around you.
• Be a child and experience that childlike sense of awe and wonder.
• Appreciate that you are but a strand in the miraculous web of life.
• Bring yourself present each day by feeling the Earth beneath your feet and the blessing of sun, wind, rain and the elements.
• Start in silence appreciating that every footstep is a prayer and a blessing given and received.
• Allow quiet time for meditation and introspection and focus on your breath – the in-breath is your inspiration.
• To quiet the mind try closing your eyes, taking some slow deep breaths and making contact with the natural world, perhaps touching a tree, a plant or the sacred waters.
• Practise an attitude of gratitude, appreciating the gifts from Mother Earth and all life – seen and unseen.
• Know that all life is interconnected and interdependent.
• Call on the help and inspiration of the life energies that surround you.
• Listen to the messages from the land, the waters and your own whispers of inner knowing.
• Be open to receive whatever gifts are offered.
And on a purely practical, physical level:
• Practise walking with a full pack before the start of a big walk.
• Remember that unnecessary possessions become unnecessary burdens. Carry only what is needed.
• Make sure you know how to adjust all your backpack straps for maximum comfort and convenience. Experiment.
• Try trekking poles (at home before the start) as these spread the load and take some of the weight off your feet.
• Be well hydrated at the start and always carry enough clean drinking water.
• Walk at a pace that feels comfortable and natural rather than trying to keep up with faster or more experienced walkers.
• Consider using lightweight, quick-drying, wicking clothing and add or remove layers to regulate body temperature.
• Wear comfy footwear that you’re familiar with and be aware that your feet will expand when you’ve been walking a while (tight footwear will hurt you).
• Carry a change of lightweight footwear to change into at the end of the day or go barefoot.
• Choose socks that don’t slip and slide on your feet causing abrasion.
• Try to remove footwear and socks at least every two hours to cool and dry your feet.
• Experiment with ‘Earthing’ and tapping into the positive energies of being barefoot upon the Earth.
• Pack a good hat that shields your face and can function in strong wind.
• Consider packing a multi-purpose buff for extra warmth and protection.
• Listen carefully to your body and don’t ignore pain, discomfort or hotspots that warn of a blister that can often be prevented.
• Consider carrying ‘second skin’ to prevent or ease blisters.
• Try sheep’s wool on hotspots as it cushions tender areas and the natural lanolin oil soothes.
• Have fun – if it isn’t fun it isn’t sustainable!