During my presentation for Women's Programming at Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba, I touched on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). With the shorter days in full swing, I want to dive a little deeper and share how it affects me and what I am doing to hopefully slay it this year. I saw my doctor recently … Continue reading Singing the winter blues: Seasonal Affective Disorder
Last week I gave a presentation at Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba entitled The Backpack Chronicles: The path to sobriety and mental wellness through nature. I had no idea how many people would show up and I imagined anywhere from one person to a packed room with standing space only. A Facebook event had been created … Continue reading Speaking at Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba
I have been occupied with working on a project that is an extension of my blog, which is why I have been quiet with posting. I am preparing to expand the community that my voice reaches by using my lived-experience with mental illness to speak at Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba as part of Women's … Continue reading Let’s talk about mental health and hiking
I have learned to honour the emotions that pulse through me and to give myself what I need when I need it. My mental health is a top priority of mine and I have created a life free from alcohol that was built little by little with each personal milestone. I truthfully spend a lot … Continue reading You have to go through those mountains and valleys – because that’s what life is: soul growth
I had a love affair with Earl Grey tea during traditional Afternoon Tea when my husband and I stayed at Fairmont Château Lake Louise. I sat in the Lake View Lounge and spent my afternoon looking out at Victoria Glacier. Little did I know at that time, Earl Grey tea would return to soothe my … Continue reading Sometimes it’s hard being me
I feel like I am trapped in a cycle of depression. I literally feel no joy in anything. Even petting my dog as she sniffs my hand while writing this feels like too much for me. I'm laying on the couch after mindlessly getting through my day. I'd honestly rather be alone in my bedroom … Continue reading Depression has hit
My previous time on Hunt Lake trail did not go well due to physical and mental overexertion. I had two anxiety attacks that resulted in me ripping my backpack off in the middle of the backcountry and hyperventilating. It was terrifying. My friend joined me for her first time on Hunt Lake and I took … Continue reading Hunt Lake Redemption
I put my boots on the Appalachian Trail knowing that the trail would be hard. I wanted the trail to be hard. I went in with the right mindset, knowing I would succeed with mind over body. I am proud of what I accomplished. I will use my experience as a stepping stone to further … Continue reading Appalachian Trail: The end is the new beginning (day 7)
I had a dream overnight where I was wondering the halls at my old junior high. I was fuming for some unknown reason. Being upset was a regular feeling during my teenage years. I opened a door to a classroom and when I walked in, my current co-workers were sitting around watching soccer on the … Continue reading Appalachian Trail: Missing Life Back Home (day 5)
I awoke in the morning to see a text from my friend saying that she needed a day off the trail to rest and start antibiotics. We were welcome to stay with Karen and her family. Hitch hiking was one thing but I felt more vulnerable being in someone's house. I will walk into the … Continue reading Appalachian Trail: Above and Beyond Trail Angel (day 3)
Wild Woman Wisdom 