A few weeks ago, I embarked on a life-changing experience, hiking along The Camino de Santiago through Spain. For 14 days and 350 km, I traveled solo, carrying all my possessions on my back. It was a journey that had been on my mind for years, and last March, I made the decision: I would leave from León, Spain, on August 27—and I would go alone.
With the blessings of my husband and kids, I began the meticulous process of researching and planning every “step” of my journey. From mapping out my route and booking accommodations to figuring out what I could comfortably carry in my backpack, I knew preparation was key. Although I’ve always been physically fit, I designed a more focused training schedule for the five months leading up to my departure. I walked the gravel roads of my rural community, tackled every hill I could find, and didn’t let bugs or bad weather deter me from training. I combined resistance training with yoga and worked on stability with my Bosu ball, ensuring I was ready for the adventure that lay ahead.
On August 24, I flew to Madrid, caught a train to León, and began The Camino on August 27th. Here are some of the valuable lessons I learned, not just for the trail but for life itself:
Buen Camino ~
1. Take Care of Your Feet
On The Camino, your feet carry you forward, one step at a time—just like in life. If you don’t take care of the foundation on which you stand, progress becomes painful. Whether it’s physical health, emotional well-being, or mental resilience, nurturing your base allows you to keep moving forward without faltering.
2. Prioritize Rest
Just as the body needs rest to recover after a long day on the trail, in life, we need to pause and recharge. Without proper rest, we lose clarity, energy, and perspective. Prioritizing sleep isn’t just about being physically refreshed; it’s about ensuring you have the strength to face the journey ahead with focus and intention.
3. I Am Strong and Confident
The Camino showed me that I am stronger than I realized, both physically and mentally. Life, like the trail, will test our limits. But each challenge faced builds our confidence, reminding us that we are capable of more than we think. Every uphill battle is an opportunity to prove to ourselves that we are resilient and powerful.
4. Drop the Ego
There were times when I needed help along the way—whether it was directions, support, or even just a word of encouragement. In life, as on The Camino, it’s okay to ask for help. Letting go of the ego allows us to grow, learn, and form deeper connections with others. True strength isn’t in doing everything alone, but in knowing when to lean on others.
5. People Are My Fuel
On the trail, the conversations and shared moments with fellow pilgrims became my fuel to keep going. In life, the people we surround ourselves with often determine the energy we bring to our journey. Connection, community, and shared experiences can make all the difference between giving up and pressing forward.
6. Be Prepared for Any Weather
On The Camino, I faced blazing heat, wind, and rain—all within the same day. Life, too, is unpredictable. We can’t control the conditions we walk through, but we can control how we respond. Flexibility, resilience, and preparation ensure that no matter the weather, we keep moving forward with grace.
7. Family is Important
Throughout my journey, I carried with me love letters from my family. Their words of encouragement provided me with the strength to continue, especially during the hardest days. My children’s messages reminded me of their love and belief in me:
“You’ve been an inspiration to me when it comes to self-expression. You taught me to dance like no one is watching. Now I can proudly say I can dance when everyone is watching.”
“I know you will be able to crush the trail and make it to the end in record timing. Make sure to enjoy the journey every step of the way.”
“Maybe one day I’ll be as brave as you… I did brave the GoTrain by myself after all :)”
Their words fuelled me, and the bond I have with my family reminded me of what truly matters in life—love, support, and shared moments.
One family message humorously added, “The only thing that would surprise me is if you stayed in a hostel!” Their belief in me is a gift I carry in all aspects of life. BTW – I stayed in albergue’s but always in a private room with a private bathroom.
8. Keep Your Head Up and Enjoy the Views
In both life and The Camino, it’s easy to get so focused on the goal that we forget to appreciate the journey. By keeping my head up, I was rewarded with breathtaking views and small moments of beauty that made the struggle worthwhile. Life is about more than just reaching the destination; it’s about savoring the journey along the way.
9. Anxiety and Fear Are Not Leading Emotions
At the Cruz de Ferro a popular monument along The Camino I left a symbolic stone, representing my decision to leave behind anxiety and fear. In life, as on The Camino, we often carry unnecessary burdens that weigh us down. Letting go of fear and anxiety allowed me to walk with greater freedom, and this lesson will continue to guide me as I face life’s future challenges.
10. We Can All Do with Less
I never thought I could live for 14 days with only what I could carry on my back, but The Camino taught me that we can all do with less than we imagine. No makeup, no worrying about my hair, no fancy outfits—and I survived. Every day, I was ready in under 20 minutes. Why? Because none of those things mattered. Why do we care so much about our appearance and spend so much time and energy on it? I made lasting friendships, gained respect, and intrigued people just by being raw and real. It was simply me, and I loved it.10. Embrace Flexibility
11. Embrace Flexibility
Nothing goes exactly as planned—whether it’s on the trail or in life. Flexibility isn’t just about reacting to what happens, it’s about adapting to the unexpected and still finding joy and meaning in the journey. When life throws detours your way, they may just lead to the most beautiful experiences.
Bonus Lesson
12. When You Make Wellness a Priority, You Are Always Ready
If I hadn’t prioritized my physical and mental wellness before this journey, I wouldn’t have been able to tackle The Camino with the strength and endurance required. This lesson extends to all aspects of life—when you Make Wellness a Priority, you’ll always be ready to take on any challenge, embark on new adventures, and pursue the goals that matter most to you. Wellness prepares you for whatever comes your way.
Such Gratitude
A special heartfelt thank you goes out to two incredible ladies, Claire and Jenny, who I met separately along The Camino but soon became cherished companions. Without these two angels crossing my path, I wouldn’t have navigated some of the tougher moments with as much grace and determination. You both will forever hold a place in my heart.
Lisa LounsburyFounder, New Day Wellness Inc.
Author of “Making Wellness a Priority
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