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Yes, I'm anticipating the same thing - the repetitive walking motion will feel somewhat meditative and allow my mind to wander at will. Currently my mind is a bit like an amusement arcade, full of blinking lights and buzzing sounds, with a noisy soundtrack playing in the background. Not ideal...Yes - in my opinion you are seriously overthinking thingsBut you know that already.
Walking a Camino will give you a lot of time for reflection. Unless you have extraordinary mental and spiritual discipline I doubt that you will be able to focus your thinking entirely on one specific horn of your dilemma for the duration. I'm not convinced that would be very desirable anyway. My own experience has been that the physical repetitive action of walking day after day has a stilling effect on my mind and allows me to indulge in mental meandering while the body looks after itself. Those mental excursions might be to do with immediate personal concerns or equally may involve more remote and less easily defined issues. My own inclination is to allow the journey to speak to me and suggest where my mind should go hour by hour. I suspect that if one defines one's questions too specifically well in advance then one's conclusions are also being drawn before you even set foot on the road.
I don't "get that". I have no idea how one should go about preparing mentally for one's walk, any more than one would go about preparing mentally for any month in your life. When you say "mentioned by everyone", maybe you are referring to a small group of people who are making a living out of promoting a dream to others. (Don't get me wrong, I really like Brierley's guide books, but I skip the "Mystical path" sections.)A couple things that were mentioned by everyone, is the importance of preparing mentally for your walk, as well as physically. In fact it was stated that the mental preparation is even more important than the physical. I get that.
I cannot see how one can do both at once. Both are good, and I would seek a reasonable balance in my life, including time on the Camino. I don't take roll call to see if I am present or not. I get up in the morning and walk. Sometimes my mind wanders all over the place, sometimes I am fascinated by the path.How does one use the time walking to reflect on questions in one's life that they are seeking answers to, while being 100% present in the moment. It seems to be to be one or the other.
Perhaps this is a very revealing point. It seems that you are seeking a transformation in your life. I have never been seeking a transformation from my Caminos and I don't believe that most of us are. Understanding why you want a transformation, and what type, is very important, but that work should take place at home and not be saved for the Camino.But for those that have walked the camino for the purpose of, or in the hopes of, a transformation in their lives,
The heaviest thing that you can bring on the Camino is expectations. Leave them at home.Don't put big expectations on the Camino as a transformative experience.
Go. Walk. And see.How does one use the time walking to reflect on questions in one's life that they are seeking answers to, while being 100% present in the moment. It seems to be to be one or the other.
A few things come to mind.I don't "get that". I have no idea how one should go about preparing mentally for one's walk,
Amen. Even the Dalai Lama says he forgets this sometimes.If you manage to walk an entire Camino while being totally present all the time then you are further along the path then anyone that I have ever met or corresponded with
It depends on where you think that the answers lie. If you think that the answers will be found in reason then being present and reasoning something out are different processes.How does one use the time walking to reflect on questions in one's life that they are seeking answers to, while being 100% present in the moment. It seems to be to be one or the other.
I've never thought about preparing myself mentally for the Camino nor have I used the Camino to answer questions about the mystery of life, what my purpose is, etc., nor with the intention to fix or change myself or my life.
I believe in just relaxing and letting it happen, and incorporating the insights that you may have into your daily li
Thanks for your thoughtful reply and you’ve made some good points.I don't "get that". I have no idea how one should go about preparing mentally for one's walk, any more than one would go about preparing mentally for any month in your life. When you say "mentioned by everyone", maybe you are referring to a small group of people who are making a living out of promoting a dream to others. (Don't get me wrong, I really like Brierley's guide books, but I skip the "Mystical path" sections.)
Your comments really resonated with me as our situations and motivations have some similarities. Thanks for sharing.@JustJack Don't over think it
Just walk..........
I wanted to walk my first Camino as a break from work, life, everything really.
At age 57, I had worked my butt of since the age of 15, been married twice, tried to raise 4 kids (badly), was running 5 businesses.
I just wanted to get off the treadmill!
And hopefully re-evaluate things, find myself, have a break, who knows.
All I knew, was that I needed time alone, with no responsibilities and distractions.
I walked alone, which was great.
To the crunch crunch sound of the gravel, I lost myself in the rhythm of the walk and life each day was simple. I began to feel really at peace, grounded and connected with the environment.
Perhaps I could find the answer I thought to myself.
But I didn't even know what the question was.
Without forcing anything at all, just relaxing, being present and grounded and freeing my mind to wander.......
After 2 weeks I discovered the question!
It just popped up.
Not that I was even really looking for it.
The question that, if I knew the answer, might give me greater direction and life meaning.
At 4 weeks, I found the answer!
A really simple answer.
Since that first Camino in 2015, and 'boosted' by two more since, I am happier, less stressed, not working as hard, and really looking forward to my next one, to recharge.
As previously suggested, go without expectations.
Just walk.......
The answers will come to you, when you least expect them.......
As I’ve said, I recognize I’m totally over thinking things, and inducing major eye rolls. No doubt some of this over thinking is a result of pandemic-induced boredom and restlessness, and I’ll cringe looking back. Oh well.
Hi Jack. if you have things you want to think over or resolve - my bet is they will come to mind naturally as you walk - no need to plan how that will happen.
And … you have no reason at all to ‘cringe looking back’. Putting yourself ‘out there’ by expressing your thoughts in such an open way - to a bunch of strangers online - even risking a few ‘eye rolls’ - is courageous.
Bravo. And Buen Camino.
PS. I don’t think there would have been many eye rolls. ☺
It depends… I’m accustomed to carrying a few expectations. I expect:The heaviest thing that you can bring on the Camino is expectations. Leave them at home.
But did they set out on the Camino with the expectation that they would have a transformational experience?to me. I would also argue that there is a sizeable number of people who have had transformational experiences without any a commercial interests in sharing those experiences
Nope. No eye rolls.As I’ve said, I recognize I’m totally over thinking things, and inducing major eye rolls.
Just walk and let your mind go, like Doughnut NZ says "let the walking do your thinking"Thanks for your thoughtful reply and you’ve made some good points.
I am in fact hoping for some sort of change (if in fact “transformation” is overly ambitious) in my life. I happen to be at a particular stage in my life where I need to make some decisions, as the status quo isn’t cutting it. So while I appreciate that you and many (most?) others don’t get or agree with the notion of preparing mentally, it makes sense to me. I would also argue that there is a sizeable number of people who have had transformational experiences without any a commercial interests in sharing those experiences.
As I’ve said, I recognize I’m totally over thinking things, and inducing major eye rolls. No doubt some of this over thinking is a result of pandemic-induced boredom and restlessness, and I’ll cringe looking back. Oh well.
I guess that was quite a while ago? Long before the flood of news articles, magazine articles, TV broadcasts, photos, books, movies, videos, blogs, online forums, online groups, associations and threads like this one?I think John's advice is pretty amusing. I only come with one question - will I make it to Santiago de Compostela?
I just put my backpack on and walk … enjoying what’s around the next bend … whatever is in my mind is in my mind …This is a 100% personal reflection from me, non transferable, so to speak, because everyone is different.
I really like your question.
Next time I might write down the questions I am seeking answers to, just one or two, on a small piece of paper and put it in my pack.
When I walk I focus on being present, bringing my mind back to the here and now as it wanders. Enjoying the experience. I let the Camino do the work.
I might take out my piece of paper, but rarely, and make a ceremony of reading it. Tuck it back away. Perhaps at they end of my Camino I might reflect, do I have the answers? Are these still the questions? Were they ever?
I haven’t done this in the past, but I have thrown in my job one time, and twice taken up new careers. Each time a good move, never expected. For me it is the unique opportunity to be totally present, not even thinking about what is for dinner (the Camino provides), that is transformative.
Some random thoughts on mindfulness and epiphanies on camino.
Leave all you can behind and just take yourself. By "all" I mean fears, expectations, and, if possible, much contact with what is now your real life and "be in the moment".
Walking is a great way to meditate particularly if you walk alone or with another soul who does not talk much, there will be plenty of time for talk when the days walk is complete.
The rhythm of the camino will calm you as life boils down to the necessities, shelter and food.
Walk peacefully with yourself and with others.
Let your thoughts come and go as they will and don't over analyse them.
Be open to the camino and take as much time as you can over the walk.
Don't look for answers they will come of their own accord, or not.
The less you expect the more you will gain.
That's all bit mystical perhaps but it works well for me when walking, camino or not
I agree with those who say 'just let it happen'. It is easy to over-think the Camino. I've walked it once and will be doing so again at age 73. Can't say any questions were answered but I wasn't looking for any. The experience is just walking, during which times your mind will heal itself in unexpected ways. Sometimes you will feel 'present'; sometimes you will walk in a daze. Doesn't matter. It's just you and the earth. And the earth is healing. We don't always recognize healing when it comes from outside the mind. Just walk and enjoy and the results will be perfect for who you are and what you need.A bit of an odd, and likely not-well-thought-out question/comment, but here goes.
I've watched a few interviews with people that have walked the camino multiple times, including an interview Ivan did with camino guidebook author John Brierley (I hope I've got that right). A couple things that were mentioned by everyone, is the importance of preparing mentally for your walk, as well as physically. In fact it was stated that the mental preparation is even more important than the physical. I get that.
John suggested making a list of questions you are seeking answers to prior to departing, in order to ensure that you are focused on the right things. Makes perfect sense, and I've begun thinking about those things.
However another thing that is frequently mentioned is the importance of being 100% present in the moment while you are walking. In fact, learning how to be better at being present in the moment is one of my goals for walking the camino.
These two things however seem somewhat contradictory. How does one use the time walking to reflect on questions in one's life that they are seeking answers to, while being 100% present in the moment. It seems to be to be one or the other.
I fully appreciate that I'm overthinking things, and getting caught up in the minutia, so feel free to tell me to snap out of it. But for those that have walked the camino for the purpose of, or in the hopes of, a transformation in their lives, did you find it to be a challenge balancing being 100% present at the moment, with exercising all the old demons and memories from the past.
In a perfect world I would walk two caminos back-to-back. During the first I would spend my time addressing the issues in my life I want to address (and therefore not be very present mentally while I'm walking). Then during the second camino, having already sorted out some of the issues in my lifeI would spend all of my time focused on each and every moment of the walk. Alas I don't think back-to-back caminos is going to happen this time around.
Is this even something that others have given any thought to, or am I being a bit ridiculous? Spending over a year unable to travel during a pandemic, and becoming consumed with the notion of walking a camino, is causing me to really overthink thinks, I know. I should probably take a step back and a break from thinking about and planning my camino before I end up going down too many rabbit holes... I appreciate this community's patience with people like me. I'm quite confident that once I've done it, and look back at posts like this, I'm going to shake my head at how silly I was. But my question stands for now.
Your question reminds me so much of the movie About Time where the males in the family can have do-overs and travel back in time. Excellent movie where in the end the dad, portrayed by Bill Nighy, gives the secret to his son of how to really live one’s life even though there is an opportunity to “fix” mistakes. The son comes to realize that it is better to live each day once, deciding from that point on to not time travel at all, and comes to appreciate life with his family as if he is living it for the second time. So, be one with the road. Your introspective opportunities may very well present themselves like aha moments. The Camino provides! Buen Camino!A bit of an odd, and likely not-well-thought-out question/comment, but here goes.
I've watched a few interviews with people that have walked the camino multiple times, including an interview Ivan did with camino guidebook author John Brierley (I hope I've got that right). A couple things that were mentioned by everyone, is the importance of preparing mentally for your walk, as well as physically. In fact it was stated that the mental preparation is even more important than the physical. I get that.
John suggested making a list of questions you are seeking answers to prior to departing, in order to ensure that you are focused on the right things. Makes perfect sense, and I've begun thinking about those things.
However another thing that is frequently mentioned is the importance of being 100% present in the moment while you are walking. In fact, learning how to be better at being present in the moment is one of my goals for walking the camino.
These two things however seem somewhat contradictory. How does one use the time walking to reflect on questions in one's life that they are seeking answers to, while being 100% present in the moment. It seems to be to be one or the other.
I fully appreciate that I'm overthinking things, and getting caught up in the minutia, so feel free to tell me to snap out of it. But for those that have walked the camino for the purpose of, or in the hopes of, a transformation in their lives, did you find it to be a challenge balancing being 100% present at the moment, with exercising all the old demons and memories from the past.
In a perfect world I would walk two caminos back-to-back. During the first I would spend my time addressing the issues in my life I want to address (and therefore not be very present mentally while I'm walking). Then during the second camino, having already sorted out some of the issues in my lifeI would spend all of my time focused on each and every moment of the walk. Alas I don't think back-to-back caminos is going to happen this time around.
Is this even something that others have given any thought to, or am I being a bit ridiculous? Spending over a year unable to travel during a pandemic, and becoming consumed with the notion of walking a camino, is causing me to really overthink thinks, I know. I should probably take a step back and a break from thinking about and planning my camino before I end up going down too many rabbit holes... I appreciate this community's patience with people like me. I'm quite confident that once I've done it, and look back at posts like this, I'm going to shake my head at how silly I was. But my question stands for now.
After walking Caminos over the past 11 years I can wholeheartedly agree.I've never thought about preparing myself mentally for the Camino nor have I used the Camino to answer questions about the mystery of life, what my purpose is, etc., nor with the intention to fix or change myself or my life.
I believe in just relaxing and letting it happen, and incorporating the insights that you may have into your daily life.
so feel free to tell me to snap out of it.
Maybe the best mental preparation IS the physical. This would come from long walks at home - there is no need to wait for arrival in Spain.the importance of preparing mentally for your walk, as well as physically
You might find that you need to walk for an hour or so before you begin to feel the calming effects, so try to make those walks long enough.the repetitive walking motion will feel somewhat meditative and allow my mind to wander at will. Currently my mind is a bit like an amusement arcade, full of blinking lights and buzzing sounds, with a noisy soundtrack playing in the background. Not ideal.
You have gotten many wise answers here. My suggestion is to just go. You will have:However another thing that is frequently mentioned is the importance of being 100% present in the moment while you are walking. In fact, learning how to be better at being present in the moment is one of my goals for walking the camino.
These two things however seem somewhat contradictory. How does one use the time walking to reflect on questions in one's life that they are seeking answers to, while being 100% present in the moment. It seems to be to be one or the other.
And I shared similar and it was outstanding this Sept & Oct on CF. Wouldn’t change one part of it.It depends… I’m accustomed to carrying a few expectations. I expect:
To drink great coffee and beer.
To eat a lot of so-so and/or bland pilgrim food and a few meals I will remember fondly.
To hear world championship snoring.
To meet several great folks along the way.
To see a wonderful country.
And, to feel both great and spent at the end of most days.
This is my hope, and a little bit my fear as well - finding and facing the "real me". It's been buried so long under so much crap that I'm worried I may not necessarily like what I findWith enough time and distance...there are no questions...nor answers..there is just you. The basic beautiful real you.
And when you have gone far and long enough to burn away all the burdens your inner voice, the real inner voice you have been trying to hear? Of a sudden becomes the only one.
All other things burn away in that light of "being"
Doubts,regrets,uncertainties and what makes you...you...becomes evident.
And here is where what your looking for is layed open. You may not find what is there is good or even tolorable..but there you are.
Happiness
Sadness
And everything in between awaits you and if your strong enough to face that mirror then welcome back to you.and you can start from scratch to rebuild.
You have time and distance to sort it out and for the fears to turn into certainty.
At least thats what my travels did for me.
Time
Space
Distance so i could remember who I was and wanted to be without the world pressing in.
Buen Camino!
It does its own thing - and if you don't get out of the way, it'll be an especially 'interesting' experience.
Thank you for your thoughts and the video link. I look forward to watching it this evening. A couple of your comments really hit home.To reply to the original question posted above I will talk to my own experience. Before I walked my first Camino (CF) back in 2015 I watched many hours of YouTube Camino videos while walking on my treadmill training for the walk. I also read around 10 books to try to understand what to expect on the walk -- beyond the physical. I had read about a lot of folks going through some kind of transformation, and frankly I was hoping this might happen to me. However I also knew that 'a transformation' is not something you can plan. As many have said in the past the first third of the Camino is physical as you get use to walking everyday. The second third is mental as your mind gets use to the rhythm of walking and not worrying about all the distractions we face at home. For many this happens while they are walking the Meseta. The last third is spiritual as you begin to think of reaching Santiago. At least for me and many others I have read about the Meseta has a way of freeing up the mind. You can walk without thinking about where to take the next step, or to avoid a rock. You can just free your mind to think. This was certainly true for me and consequently it was my favorite part of the Camino. From your questions above JustJack, I suspect you may like it as well. Clearing the mind on the Meseta opens one up for a transformation, at least it did for me. I am not a religious person, but I am somewhat spiritual. However I was certainly not expecting what happened to me at Cruz de Ferro. One minute I am walking thinking about how great my life is and the next I just started crying uncontrollably from a wave of emotion that overtook me at that place. I was recording my experiences on video and caught that 'transformation'. The moment I finally understood why I was walking. I made a video about my whole walk, but what I call chapter 8, is the time leading up to and just past Cruz de Ferro. I love sharing this video and if you are interested in viewing it you can find it at this link...
That is similar to my "reason" I think. When I learned about it, there was just this "well, I have to do that". And, then there was a desire/need to get back to Europe along with a sort of "get out of Dodge". Whenever I travel I want to BE wherever I am and soak it up, learn customs, enjoy the place, be it city or countryside. I enjoy meeting people, locals and fellow travelers, but don't set off with a sense of "making new friends". The walking was good too. I've always walked and like that the pace allows me to feel as I'm really experiencing a place. Here at home I am still living "car-free", having moved from a city where it is literally impossible to live a normal life without a car to one with good bus service. The second Caminho in Portugal was a welcome homecoming; I lived 11 years on the Portuguese island of Faial, and 4 mainland Portugal. Nothing profound I'm afraid....I've never thought about preparing myself mentally for the Camino nor have I used the Camino to answer questions about the mystery of life, what my purpose is, etc., nor with the intention to fix or change myself or my life.
I believe in just relaxing and letting it happen, and incorporating the insights that you may have into your daily life.
It's just a walk. You'll have plenty of time to think about (and deal with) the present: aches, accommodations, weather, exertion. After that, you can ruminate.A bit of an odd, and likely not-well-thought-out question/comment, but here goes.
I've watched a few interviews with people that have walked the camino multiple times, including an interview Ivan did with camino guidebook author John Brierley (I hope I've got that right). A couple things that were mentioned by everyone, is the importance of preparing mentally for your walk, as well as physically. In fact it was stated that the mental preparation is even more important than the physical. I get that.
John suggested making a list of questions you are seeking answers to prior to departing, in order to ensure that you are focused on the right things. Makes perfect sense, and I've begun thinking about those things.
However another thing that is frequently mentioned is the importance of being 100% present in the moment while you are walking. In fact, learning how to be better at being present in the moment is one of my goals for walking the camino.
These two things however seem somewhat contradictory. How does one use the time walking to reflect on questions in one's life that they are seeking answers to, while being 100% present in the moment. It seems to be to be one or the other.
I fully appreciate that I'm overthinking things, and getting caught up in the minutia, so feel free to tell me to snap out of it. But for those that have walked the camino for the purpose of, or in the hopes of, a transformation in their lives, did you find it to be a challenge balancing being 100% present at the moment, with exercising all the old demons and memories from the past.
In a perfect world I would walk two caminos back-to-back. During the first I would spend my time addressing the issues in my life I want to address (and therefore not be very present mentally while I'm walking). Then during the second camino, having already sorted out some of the issues in my lifeI would spend all of my time focused on each and every moment of the walk. Alas I don't think back-to-back caminos is going to happen this time around.
Is this even something that others have given any thought to, or am I being a bit ridiculous? Spending over a year unable to travel during a pandemic, and becoming consumed with the notion of walking a camino, is causing me to really overthink thinks, I know. I should probably take a step back and a break from thinking about and planning my camino before I end up going down too many rabbit holes... I appreciate this community's patience with people like me. I'm quite confident that once I've done it, and look back at posts like this, I'm going to shake my head at how silly I was. But my question stands for now.
Letting the process happen, without actively managing or controlling the situation will help with resultsThis is my hope, and a little bit my fear as well - finding and facing the "real me". It's been buried so long under so much crap that I'm worried I may not necessarily like what I find.
But like it or hate it, it will be real, which is the point of it all.
Of course not.I'm worried I may not necessarily like what I find.
But like it or hate it, it will be real, which is the point of it all
Exactly. People put too much pressure on themselves and the Camino. It is just a walk.It's just a walk. You'll have plenty of time to think about (and deal with) the present: aches, accommodations, weather, exertion. After that, you can ruminate.
I would say yes and no.It is just a walk.
Not really, because the sense of being present in the here and now and keeping that up for weeks is a large part of how, when, and why the Camino can be, albeit not necessarily, a transformative experience.These two things however seem somewhat contradictory.
You’ll enjoy it and you’ll get everything out of it that you hope for.
Simple.
Mostly, they either don't happen at all, I'd guess for most pilgrims.epiphanies on camino.
Or not.@JustJack Don't over think it
As previously suggested, go without expectations.
Just walk.......
The answers will come to you, when you least expect them.......
I concur wholeheartedly with Sabine. In fact I was writing my above post before hers was posted.This might not always be the case and that is also ok.
Not everyone enjoys a Camino and neither will you get " everything " out of it.
There is no shame in realising that a particular Camino/ pilgrimage is not your cup of tea ( for whatever reason ).
Yes, of course.This might not always be the case and that is also ok.
Not everyone enjoys a Camino and neither will you get " everything " out of it.
There is no shame in realising that a particular Camino/ pilgrimage is not your cup of tea ( for whatever reason ).
There are many different ways for this very reason. A camino is not the way for everyone.I have no idea how the Camino turned out for the two but as Sabine said, it's just not for everyone and that's just fine.
VERY similar to mine. Physical prep only.Your comments really resonated with me as our situations and motivations have some similarities. Thanks for sharing.
Your question is not silly. I have a master’s degree in Spiritual Formation and I love and live in these questions. I found on both of my caminos that things surface. They often surface for me when I am being present. I have loved taking in the beauty of the surroundings or a person and finding myself feeling stirred in some way. I am trying to say, “They are not mutually exclusive, both can happen simultaneously”. The biggest challenge for me was to lay down the everyday details of where to stay etc. And I intentionally said a “Welcoming prayer” that I would be able to let go and accept what each moment/day brought. I think if your intention is to be present, you will notice both when you are and when you are not. There isn’t a formula, just intentions and noticing. I hope you have a wonderful Camino.A bit of an odd, and likely not-well-thought-out question/comment, but here goes.
I've watched a few interviews with people that have walked the camino multiple times, including an interview Ivan did with camino guidebook author John Brierley (I hope I've got that right). A couple things that were mentioned by everyone, is the importance of preparing mentally for your walk, as well as physically. In fact it was stated that the mental preparation is even more important than the physical. I get that.
John suggested making a list of questions you are seeking answers to prior to departing, in order to ensure that you are focused on the right things. Makes perfect sense, and I've begun thinking about those things.
However another thing that is frequently mentioned is the importance of being 100% present in the moment while you are walking. In fact, learning how to be better at being present in the moment is one of my goals for walking the camino.
These two things however seem somewhat contradictory. How does one use the time walking to reflect on questions in one's life that they are seeking answers to, while being 100% present in the moment. It seems to be to be one or the other.
I fully appreciate that I'm overthinking things, and getting caught up in the minutia, so feel free to tell me to snap out of it. But for those that have walked the camino for the purpose of, or in the hopes of, a transformation in their lives, did you find it to be a challenge balancing being 100% present at the moment, with exercising all the old demons and memories from the past.
In a perfect world I would walk two caminos back-to-back. During the first I would spend my time addressing the issues in my life I want to address (and therefore not be very present mentally while I'm walking). Then during the second camino, having already sorted out some of the issues in my lifeI would spend all of my time focused on each and every moment of the walk. Alas I don't think back-to-back caminos is going to happen this time around.
Is this even something that others have given any thought to, or am I being a bit ridiculous? Spending over a year unable to travel during a pandemic, and becoming consumed with the notion of walking a camino, is causing me to really overthink thinks, I know. I should probably take a step back and a break from thinking about and planning my camino before I end up going down too many rabbit holes... I appreciate this community's patience with people like me. I'm quite confident that once I've done it, and look back at posts like this, I'm going to shake my head at how silly I was. But my question stands for now.
This is actually a circle that it is quite straightforward to square. The point about being in the present is pertinent for a) the purpose of not getting lost and inadvertantly adding unwanted kilometres to your walk and b) the purpose of missing any of the numerous beautiful sights, sites and buildings, religious and secular which crop up on the Camino. Depending on which Camino that you decide to do the importance of the a) point will vary, however even on the Frances there are plenty of opportunities to get lost. The b) factor is almost always there but there are plenty of long straight sections on every Camino. On that point this is where the internal self examination can kick in. The really good news is that (depending on which Camino you choose) you will get to interact with a lot of amazing people on your journey who will help to put your world in perspective.A bit of an odd, and likely not-well-thought-out question/comment, but here goes.
I've watched a few interviews with people that have walked the camino multiple times, including an interview Ivan did with camino guidebook author John Brierley (I hope I've got that right). A couple things that were mentioned by everyone, is the importance of preparing mentally for your walk, as well as physically. In fact it was stated that the mental preparation is even more important than the physical. I get that.
John suggested making a list of questions you are seeking answers to prior to departing, in order to ensure that you are focused on the right things. Makes perfect sense, and I've begun thinking about those things.
However another thing that is frequently mentioned is the importance of being 100% present in the moment while you are walking. In fact, learning how to be better at being present in the moment is one of my goals for walking the camino.
These two things however seem somewhat contradictory. How does one use the time walking to reflect on questions in one's life that they are seeking answers to, while being 100% present in the moment. It seems to be to be one or the other.
I fully appreciate that I'm overthinking things, and getting caught up in the minutia, so feel free to tell me to snap out of it. But for those that have walked the camino for the purpose of, or in the hopes of, a transformation in their lives, did you find it to be a challenge balancing being 100% present at the moment, with exercising all the old demons and memories from the past.
In a perfect world I would walk two caminos back-to-back. During the first I would spend my time addressing the issues in my life I want to address (and therefore not be very present mentally while I'm walking). Then during the second camino, having already sorted out some of the issues in my lifeI would spend all of my time focused on each and every moment of the walk. Alas I don't think back-to-back caminos is going to happen this time around.
Is this even something that others have given any thought to, or am I being a bit ridiculous? Spending over a year unable to travel during a pandemic, and becoming consumed with the notion of walking a camino, is causing me to really overthink thinks, I know. I should probably take a step back and a break from thinking about and planning my camino before I end up going down too many rabbit holes... I appreciate this community's patience with people like me. I'm quite confident that once I've done it, and look back at posts like this, I'm going to shake my head at how silly I was. But my question stands for now.
Aha...a fellow piper!!My two cents as a minister and four time Camino veteran. It doesn’t have to be either/or. It can be both/and. But if I had to err on one side or the other, I’d err on the side of present and open.
Good morning wandering friend. I loved the question. We have already heard from a person with a masters degree in spiritual formation and their comments were terrific. so now it's time to hear from an insurance brokerYour question is not silly. I have a master’s degree in Spiritual Formation and I love and live in these questions. I found on both of my caminos that things surface. They often surface for me when I am being present. I have loved taking in the beauty of the surroundings or a person and finding myself feeling stirred in some way. I am trying to say, “They are not mutually exclusive, both can happen simultaneously”. The biggest challenge for me was to lay down the everyday details of where to stay etc. And I intentionally said a “Welcoming prayer” that I would be able to let go and accept what each moment/day brought. I think if your intention is to be present, you will notice both when you are and when you are not. There isn’t a formula, just intentions and noticing. I hope you have a wonderful Camino.
Great answer @Jilly123 !!I agree with those who say 'just let it happen'. It is easy to over-think the Camino. I've walked it once and will be doing so again at age 73. Can't say any questions were answered but I wasn't looking for any. The experience is just walking, during which times your mind will heal itself in unexpected ways. Sometimes you will feel 'present'; sometimes you will walk in a daze. Doesn't matter. It's just you and the earth. And the earth is healing. We don't always recognize healing when it comes from outside the mind. Just walk and enjoy and the results will be perfect for who you are and what you need.
To paraphrase John Lennon: Life is what happens when you are busy planning/thinking.Great answer @Jilly123 !!
Fellow “overthinker” here. Yeah, we get stuck in our heads sometimes (paralysis thru analysis) but don’t sweat it, there’s truly no right or wrong way to do your Camino. Beyond reasonable preparation for your physical needs, try not to frontload your experience. Consider staying away from the forum (irony alert!), as reading about the experiences of others can’t help but create too many expectations, which will only serve to reinforce your thought spiral. As the saying goes: don’t try to peel open the rosebud. Just go. Embrace the simple, peaceful respite from decision-making that the rhythm of Camino life provides, and the rest will sort itself out. Buen Camino!
I spent a lot of time on the forum before my first Camino, but I focused on gear selection, how to get to the Camino, how to use my phone in Spain, etc. I didn't read any books about other pilgrim's Camino experiences, as I didn't want them to influence my experience.Consider staying away from the forum (irony alert!), as reading about the experiences of others can’t help but create too many expectations,
I don't know...maybe...but a few years ago after a long day walking on the Camino I wrote in my diary that ' I think I met my best self today...'because if you go looking for yourself you might not like what you find
Indeed!To paraphrase John Lennon: Life is what happens when you are busy planning/thinking.
So, I just finished my first Camino. I had some questions all prepared. I found the following:A bit of an odd, and likely not-well-thought-out question/comment, but here goes.
I've watched a few interviews with people that have walked the camino multiple times, including an interview Ivan did with camino guidebook author John Brierley (I hope I've got that right). A couple things that were mentioned by everyone, is the importance of preparing mentally for your walk, as well as physically. In fact it was stated that the mental preparation is even more important than the physical. I get that.
John suggested making a list of questions you are seeking answers to prior to departing, in order to ensure that you are focused on the right things. Makes perfect sense, and I've begun thinking about those things.
However another thing that is frequently mentioned is the importance of being 100% present in the moment while you are walking. In fact, learning how to be better at being present in the moment is one of my goals for walking the camino.
These two things however seem somewhat contradictory. How does one use the time walking to reflect on questions in one's life that they are seeking answers to, while being 100% present in the moment. It seems to be to be one or the other.
I fully appreciate that I'm overthinking things, and getting caught up in the minutia, so feel free to tell me to snap out of it. But for those that have walked the camino for the purpose of, or in the hopes of, a transformation in their lives, did you find it to be a challenge balancing being 100% present at the moment, with exercising all the old demons and memories from the past.
In a perfect world I would walk two caminos back-to-back. During the first I would spend my time addressing the issues in my life I want to address (and therefore not be very present mentally while I'm walking). Then during the second camino, having already sorted out some of the issues in my lifeI would spend all of my time focused on each and every moment of the walk. Alas I don't think back-to-back caminos is going to happen this time around.
Is this even something that others have given any thought to, or am I being a bit ridiculous? Spending over a year unable to travel during a pandemic, and becoming consumed with the notion of walking a camino, is causing me to really overthink thinks, I know. I should probably take a step back and a break from thinking about and planning my camino before I end up going down too many rabbit holes... I appreciate this community's patience with people like me. I'm quite confident that once I've done it, and look back at posts like this, I'm going to shake my head at how silly I was. But my question stands for now.
I like thatI've never thought about preparing myself mentally for the Camino nor have I used the Camino to answer questions about the mystery of life, what my purpose is, etc., nor with the intention to fix or change myself or my life.
I believe in just relaxing and letting it happen, and incorporating the insights that you may have into your daily life.
Dear Insurance Broker, I love this! Wandering friend.Good morning wandering friend. I loved the question. We have already heard from a person with a masters degree in spiritual formation and their comments were terrific. so now it's time to hear from an insurance broker.
My camino seemed to evolve. 1st part I was alone very alone as I didnt seem to find any fluent English speaking pilgrims for days. But thank God for that aloneness. I walked the Norte deep in thought not even listening to music for about 1 week. I would argue that I was being present while at the same time doing a sort of evaluation of my life up to that point. What a tremendous luxury to walk the coast of northern Spain just me and my backpack havingbthe time to ponder
decisions I had made and all that had brought me to that point. I am a big fan of eckhart tolle book the power of now. Having read it many times. Reliving painful memories from the past and becoming upset all over again isn't really being present. Worrying about the uncertainty of the future isn't being present either. Last bit, I recall staying in a large albergue in deba. During the night I became so anxious. Why did my foot hurt so bad? Would I get lost tomorrow etc. I decide just to breath and the most wonderful peace fell upon me. All my worries and concerns just became small things I would deal with when the time came. In a word I became present in my crowded albergue so far from home and everything was just fine. Buen camino
I remember years ago reading a Zen parable that I think is very applicable to this question. It tells the story of the Zen master who instructs his students to focus on what they are doing, "When you eat, eat. When you read, read."A bit of an odd, and likely not-well-thought-out question/comment, but here goes.
I've watched a few interviews with people that have walked the camino multiple times, including an interview Ivan did with camino guidebook author John Brierley (I hope I've got that right). A couple things that were mentioned by everyone, is the importance of preparing mentally for your walk, as well as physically. In fact it was stated that the mental preparation is even more important than the physical. I get that.
John suggested making a list of questions you are seeking answers to prior to departing, in order to ensure that you are focused on the right things. Makes perfect sense, and I've begun thinking about those things.
However another thing that is frequently mentioned is the importance of being 100% present in the moment while you are walking. In fact, learning how to be better at being present in the moment is one of my goals for walking the camino.
These two things however seem somewhat contradictory. How does one use the time walking to reflect on questions in one's life that they are seeking answers to, while being 100% present in the moment. It seems to be to be one or the other.
I fully appreciate that I'm overthinking things, and getting caught up in the minutia, so feel free to tell me to snap out of it. But for those that have walked the camino for the purpose of, or in the hopes of, a transformation in their lives, did you find it to be a challenge balancing being 100% present at the moment, with exercising all the old demons and memories from the past.
In a perfect world I would walk two caminos back-to-back. During the first I would spend my time addressing the issues in my life I want to address (and therefore not be very present mentally while I'm walking). Then during the second camino, having already sorted out some of the issues in my lifeI would spend all of my time focused on each and every moment of the walk. Alas I don't think back-to-back caminos is going to happen this time around.
Is this even something that others have given any thought to, or am I being a bit ridiculous? Spending over a year unable to travel during a pandemic, and becoming consumed with the notion of walking a camino, is causing me to really overthink thinks, I know. I should probably take a step back and a break from thinking about and planning my camino before I end up going down too many rabbit holes... I appreciate this community's patience with people like me. I'm quite confident that once I've done it, and look back at posts like this, I'm going to shake my head at how silly I was. But my question stands for now.
Yes! That does sound like being present to me.A zen answer to your question would be
eat when you are hungry
Sleep when you are tired
when you sit just sit don't wobble
If you are interested in applying zazen/mindfulness in your walking try this and see if it helps.
How Your Mind Works | Lion’s Roar
We assemble the thing we call "self" ourselves, according to Buddhist psychology. Gaylon Ferguson breaks down the five-step process of ego development.www.lionsroar.com
That's wonderful.This year, it was about... Well, I still don't know what it's about.
I wore my Camino clothes for weeks after I got home. My other clothes felt wrong.Just got back from my Camino two days ago.
Three years ago, I walked ON the Camino but I don't consider it an actual Camino because I started in Sarria. I thought I was pretty cool at the time—the YouTube videos are proof of this—and my reflections were wistful and romantic. I wore the wrong boots, my pack was too heavy and worn too high on my back, and as such, I threw out my back in Arzua. I hobbled into Santiago de Compostela after six days and went straight to my hotel without seeing the Cathedral. Next day, I limped over to the obrodoiro, saw the various pilgrims laughing and hugging one another, and realized that I was missing something.
I vowed to come back and walk the entire Frances.
This year, the only question I had for the Camino going in was, "Why am I being called to do this?" In 2018, it was all about ego and mythology (of course, the movie is what triggered the obsession). This year, it was about... Well, I still don't know what it's about.
But I learned things. I witnessed amazing acts of kindness, some directed at me. I was given opportunities to be kind myself, and I hope I rose to the task. I made friends. I had amazing conversations. I suffered pain and exhaustion and days where the brain went a little haywire (especially on La Meseta). I shot video where I was filled with joy and video where I said, "**** this ****ing Camino!" and almost quit. I fell by the side of the road weeping, but I also sang Bowie at the top of my lungs to get me through (I caught wind of a young woman who was about to quit until a man with glasses emerged from the woods singing "Golden Years" and she was inspired to carry on; I like to believe I was the angel that day, but who knows?). In the end, I crawled into Santiago de Compostela laughing and weeping simultaneously; on the video, I sound like a squealing, panting fool.
Now I'm home, trying to make sense of it. I wear my Camino clothes to do yard work and for my morning walks. I still haven't connected with my friends as I'm not ready to talk about this experience.
And I'm already planning my next Camino. Not sure if that applies to your post, but it's what it made me think about this afternoon.
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