The Wilderness: My Catch and Release

Lately, the word wilderness keeps popping up everywhere I turn. It’s like the universe is whispering, “Go outside already.” And honestly, I’m starting to believe it’s no coincidence.

So, this past weekend, destination; my catch and release place, the mountains. First hike of the year, and wow it felt like nature had been holding a seat for me all along. There’s something magical about that first step onto the trail, like pressing refresh on your soul.

The excitement wasn’t just mine. My fellow hikers were buzzing too, first reunion of the new year, so there was plenty of catching up, laughter, and the kind of conversations that only happen when you’re slightly out of breath but completely in the moment. They say the simple, free things bring the most joy, and every time I put my hiking boots on, I’m reminded that it’s true.

This year, my theme is kindness specifically, being kind to myself. Forget the endless to do lists and the pressure to hustle harder. Nothing matters more than health, body, mind, and soul. And the wilderness? That’s my fuel station. Out there, I remember that I’m Airforce 1 cruising at altitude, powered by fresh air and perspective. 😊

Van Gaalen was the trail of choice, ten kilometres of easy terrain, perfect for a catch and release kind of day. The goal wasn’t to conquer mountains but to connect with nature, with friends, and with myself, and we did just that. Between the crunch of gravel underfoot and the conversation of friends exchanging stories, the hike became less about distance and more about presence.

There’s a funny thing about hiking: you start out thinking it’s about exercise, but somewhere along the way, it becomes therapy. The trees don’t judge, the mountains don’t rush you, and the sky doesn’t care if your hair is a mess. It’s the ultimate safe space.

By the time we wrapped up, I felt lighter, not just physically (though yes, 10km does wonders), but mentally. The wilderness had done its job; revived the spirit, reset the mood, and reminded me that joy doesn’t come from grand gestures. It comes from moments like these; waking up healthy, moving freely, laughing with friends, and realizing you don’t need much more than that.

So, here’s to the wilderness, my catch and release place. Here’s to hikes that feel like homecomings. And here’s to being kind to ourselves, one trail at a time. Someone ones said: ‘As long as your body is healthy; you have thousands of problems, but the moment your body get sick, you have one problem.’❤️

Because at the end of the day, the wilderness isn’t just out there. It’s also within us waiting to be rediscovered, one step, one laugh, one breath at a time.

Until next time Fabtastic people

Moira- Airforce 1