“And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.” - John Muir

One question that I'm often asked because of my posts regarding my @29029everesting experience is "Why?" Why would someone climb a mountain repeatedly to gain the same elevation as Mt. Everest? The answer to this question is ever-evolving as I continue to grow and learn more about myself. To me, 29029 is much more than just hiking up a mountain. However, my love for hiking was the catalyst for what became a beautiful and complex journey, which is where my story begins.

In 2018, I was responsible for managing a project that involved building a new airline catering facility in Salt Lake City for the company I worked for. During this time, I spent most of my days staying in hotels, and each morning, I would wake up to the stunning magnificence of the Wasatch Mountains. Every evening, I would stand in awe of the most spectacular and vibrant sunsets. It was as if the mountains were calling out to me.

One weekend, I decided to embrace my inner explorer and visit Cottonwood Canyon to hike the Lake Blanche trail - a 7.0-mile out-and-back trail in the Twin Peaks Wilderness. Every step I took presented breathtaking views that were only enhanced by the multi-hued change of seasons. The reward waiting at the end of the trail was a picturesque and tranquil lake nestled at the base of Sundial Peak.

On that day, I was free from all distractions. The only sounds I could hear were the babbling of the crystal-clear creek snaking its way down the mountain and the wind rustling through the aspen trees. I found an inner peace that I had not been able to find while dealing with the daily grind of emails, phone calls, and meetings. In that peace, and the surrounding grandeur of the mountains, I found happiness. So, my love for hiking and being in the great outdoors began.

MOUNTAIN MINDSET

It is so easy to go on autopilot and live in the repetitiveness of everyday life with all of its challenges. Take time this weekend to disconnect and head into nature to experience all it has to offer. Thirty minutes of movement, peace, quiet, and deep breathing can do wonders for your body, mind, and soul!