Camino de Santiago
Why I’m once again going to walk the Camino de Santiago (The way of Saint James): Disconnect to Connect
Finding your way on the Camino
I feel fortunate and blessed to have another opportunity to walk the Camino de Santiago. As I plan to challenge myself significantly, I will complete a 300+ kilometer (190-mile) walk from Leon to Santiago de Compostela. It is my hope this journey will continue to serve as an inspiration for others to do the same and to be better.
To its core, the Camino de Santiago is a journey of transformation. It is a chance to contemplate, meditate and think without any distractions. This is a journey to disconnect in order to connect. Many will attest, including myself, what the Camino can do for you. Be inspired by how the Camino guides you. It is an experience that must be taken firsthand. Though we have different reasons for doing it, we all have our own Camino.
Remember, you will also be challenged physically, mentally, and emotionally. Because of these, the opportunity to connect more with yourself, nature, and others will arise. But remember to plan, be inspired, and let go of your fear and worry. It is a chance to step out and discover who you are and what you are truly capable of.
What to expect
When I did my first Camino, I was told that some of the things I would be doing would be walking 20+ miles a day, walking in the rocks, mud, and uneven pavements, not knowing where I will be spending the night, walking in the rain, in the darkness, carrying a 17-pound backpack every day and perhaps encounter several blisters.
I also gained new perspectives and learned from others why they are doing it. The journey’s physical, spiritual, and emotional aspects did make me stronger, eliminate things that were not good for me, and embrace things that made me better.
After all this, will you do it again??
The short answer is YES!! Without a doubt.
Why do the Camino again?
The physical challenges are only part of the Camino; walking the Camino de Santiago will once again challenge me and give me clarity and direction. Gain skills I can use to succeed. I look forward to what there is to gain, insights, and perspectives as I meet other fellow pilgrims on the same path. I will challenge myself, push my limits, and discover my full capabilities. Each Camino is unique, with a different reason each time.
What is your Camino?
Everyone has their own Camino. It is a personal journey that is different for every individual. Some do it to contemplate, others for religious reasons, some for personal growth, and others for the challenge. Others are looking for a transformation.
I do it not only for all these reasons but to think clearly if I am going in the right direction. To be a better leader and person. To learn more humility. We often take things for granted, as everything is always ready for us. What if we do not know where we will shelter? What food will we be having? It takes away all the safety nets we have been accustomed to. By doing this, we learn, we survive, and we thrive.
Whatever your reason, the Camino will provide you with the opportunity to disconnect from your daily life and connect with yourself, your surroundings, and others. It will transform and leave you with memories and lessons that you can use daily.
Conclusion
If you seek to connect more with others and the world around you, do something that can transform you and be prepared for the physical and mental challenges the Camino de Santiago has prepared for you.
It is a personal journey to gain new insights and perspectives as you meet other pilgrims on the same path and discover your full capabilities. Challenge yourself, Embark on a journey, the Camino de Santiago awaits you.
