Getting out of the comfort zone

How can we get out of our comfort zone in a time where there are limited possibilities, new rules and a more heightened sense of awareness and fear? Well, there’s options out there for you no matter how small to expand your heart and mind.

As much as I love my adventures around Quebec, Vermont and NY State, we need to do our part and stay local. There is still plenty of opportunity to try new little adventures and test ones self in trying new experiences. Today was a great day to try out my navigating skills through Back Country Skiing in Gatineau Park. I am familiar with the trails, but with our snowstorm this past evening I decided to make first tracks on some of the designated trails and lead the way for future skiers. A few realizations I made today:

• I can trust my own intuition. I am familiar with the trails and when a direction doesn’t seem right, turn around.

• I can trust I have enough food and water even if the adventure lasts longer than expected.

• Google Maps is a great support partner when looking for a familiar trail. This proved to be handy when trying to connect the 23 and 8 to head back to the parking lot.

  • In doing this, I still managed to get of pist, but connected through some side bits and made my way to my expected destination

• BC Skiing reminds me of mountain biking. It brings out the curious side of me and also has a small fear factor in navigating rocks, sharp turns and the unexpected.

If you have the urge to try new adventures in your own backyard, I say go for it! Be safe, mindful and go with your gut. Let friends know where you are going and ensure to have the essentials with you. I spent a lot of years feeling silly that I wanted to do solo adventures, and I can say that this has be the strongest asset I have going. It gives me purpose, joy and reminds me I’m capable of so much more.

Gear: Euro-sports Ottawa. Rossi BC 70 ski set (boots, skis, poles)

Hydration: Nuun Sport

Food: Dates and little gel candies

Trails: 17, 8, 34, 22, 4 and 23 (Started at P7b)

Distance: 13.4km

Elevation gain: 430 meters

Experience required: Comfort navigating some rocks and steep short pitchy hills. Some knowledge of the trails is helpful as this can help prepare for the dowhills.

Energy Output: Fast past hiking with various small timed efforts of intense climbing. Keep momentum and a steady pace. Lots of flat areas in between to catch your breath and get back into a steady rhythm.

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