Reignite Your Spirit: The Transformative Power of Multi-Day Hiking and Paddling Adventures

From one beautiful green island surrounded by sea, to another, I’ve just returned home to Vancouver Island from a sojourn on the Island of Ireland. Mostly a trip of long walks through verdant hillsides, craggy mountains and ancient ruins, testament to pilgrimages long past, it reignited the pull within me for wanderings made spiritual by connection to the natural world.

There’s a transformation that happens on treks like this.

A certain magic unfolds when you are moving through nature, day after day. Hiking beneath the twisted trees of Tollymore Forest, scrambling along Mourne Mountain’s granite paths and meandering through pastoral fields of bleating lambs, I sensed an intrinsic shift - not only in the way I felt, but in my perception of the world. Slowly I began to realise that this fresh air fuelled movement both anchored and liberated my soul.

Hiking the magnificent paths of the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

A Transformative Journey

Every trail I explored uncovered parts of myself that had been buried under the pressures of daily life - obligations, distractions and anxieties. I discovered clarity in the cadence of my footsteps, the soft rustle of leaves, brilliant birdsong and the expansive views that stretched out before me - with each breath, I felt more vibrant.

As I navigated my way through Ireland, I began to notice an uncanny sense of belonging and connection emerge. The paths didn’t merely lead me through stunning landscapes; they led me to experience an inner awakening.

Reflecting on the Experience

Experiences such as this are not restricted to hiking or walking. They suggest a larger conversation with nature, one that I am always eager to engage - especially through stand up paddling. The same feelings of interconnectedness and spirituality resonate as I steer my board through the water.

Every stroke of the paddle sends ripples through the water, creating a harmony between me and the environment. The sensation of standing on my board, surrounded by the sweeping beauty of Vancouver Island, is liberating. It elevates my spirit and grounds me in the present moment, sharing the dance of life with the waves beneath me.

Rounding Antonio Point in the Discovery Islands, BC

There are extensive benefits to learning to paddle. Not only does it offer a unique way to appreciate natural beauty, but it also allows for mind-body connection. The lessons learned from ocean paddling parallel those found on hiking trails: patience, resilience, and a profound respect for nature.

Practical Tips for Ocean Paddling

As I sit here reflecting on my own experiences, I find it essential to share some practical insights for those of you looking to take the plunge into ocean paddling.

Start with Trip Planning

Careful trip planning is crucial. Start by researching the best spots for beginners and conditions that suit your skill level. Vancouver Island boasts numerous beaches and bays that provide ideal waters for those keen to learn.

Learn the Basics

Enrolling in a class or workshop can be incredibly beneficial. Many local organizations and businesses offer courses where you can learn to paddle in a safe environment. Don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance—it can make a world of difference, especially if you’re new to the sport.

Connect with the Community

Joining a community of local paddlers can enrich your experience. Find groups that organize paddle outings; not only will you gain practical tips, but you’ll also build relationships with like-minded individuals who share your passion for nature.

Putting chart reading and navigation skills into practice with Mount Doogie Dowler in the background.

Embrace the Spiritual Connection

Allow experiences on the water to inform your practice. Bring awareness to your surroundings - the chirping of birds, the whisper of the wind, waves lapping on your bow and the warmth of the sun on your skin. These simple joys can deepen your connection to the natural world and nourish your spirit.

Conclusion

As I return from my inspiring journey in Ireland, I am reminded of the countless ways experiences in nature can lead to personal transformation. Both hiking in the beautiful and varied terrain of Ireland and ocean paddling on the shores of Vancouver Island have unveiled profound connections to the world around me.

With each paddle stroke, I feel my spirit lift and my heart resonate with the rhythms of nature. Whether you’re navigating the waves or traversing a hillside, remember that these paths—regardless of where they may lead—are exercises in self-discovery and connection. They compel us to be present, to experience ourselves in ways that often elude us in our hectic, modern lives.

The rhythm of nature calls us back to ourselves, inviting us to embrace the beauty of our surroundings and the opportunity for personal growth that lies within every journey.

So grab your paddle, hit the water, and embark on a transformative journey that awaits you. The ocean, the mountains, and the land are ready to guide you—just as they have guided me. Embrace the call of the wild, and let the adventure unfold.

Sunset route on Hoskyn Channel, BC