Interestingly there is new research that implicates the stomach and bowel microbial balance - the gut flora - in many cases of depression. I know no more than this but it does make me wonder if these terrible mental attacks could be alleviated by altering that balance - a diet completely free of any processed and/or refined foods, plenty of live yoghurt, Manuka honey, and so on. Depression is almost unheard of in so called 'primitive' cultures where the diet is wholefood and unchanged for millennia. We know our minds affect our bodies and that our bodies affect our minds, perhaps, just perhaps this would make a difference? Is it possible that part of the improvement found by walking the Camino is not just the Camino effect - the exercise, the banishment of life's cares and woes, the community - but also the change in diet? I don't know but perhaps, just perhaps, there is an answer here?
As for the original OP - Al, you are such a Good man - look at your photo! I am glad that good things are coming to you. All is well Al, however the universe may manifest to us All is Always Well.
So ... you will be on Camino about the 4th/5th? Will you be on the Frances? I would like to share a glass of Rioja with you.
Buen Camino!
