Mountain Medicine

As we are watching the world being in different phases of transition adapting to its call for stillness, we are aware it may be any day now that we may not be able to physically move around anymore. Already stores have closed doors, or are limiting numbers of people allowed in. 

We have decided to stay in this northern part of Portugal. We decided to create a sense of peace and stability and calmness for our children, rather than entering a chaotic 4 or 5 days of travel to scramble to get back to Haida Gwaii in time.

This storm will pass. And we trust that when the storm is passed, it will be clear what our path is. Whether we can stick to our original plan to end our travels in the Netherlands in June: visiting my grandmother, my Dutch family and friends, or not. Two months from now is a long time, especially looking at the swift changes that are occurring each day. 

So now that it's clear we will stay in Portugal for an unknown time, we decided to rent a car while we still can. To be able to drive deeper into the beautiful nature parks that surround us and to take in nature's medicine. We experienced such a healing, peaceful and soothing energy on the Peneda mountain. 

This week we explored Castelo de Aboim close to Ponte da Barca. Tracy prepared an 11km route to circle the 2431 feet high mountain:

In the mountain village of Sampriz, we started our hike at the church where we found a chapel dedicated to a 'Mounted Knight slaying the Dragon' with a beautiful view of the valley. From here we trailed our way through forests and fields, resting at refreshing water falls and creeks and finally ascending to the large boulders on top.

​Along the way we were herded up by a troupe of goats and greeted by the gentle bell sounds of a lone but friendly deer-eyed cow:​

On the top of the mountain we found the Star of Bethlehem! It is amazing to me that after hours of hiking and a brief brake for snacks, the men in my family continue to move.... Boundless energy! So grateful for them spreading their joy, laughter and light!

While I enjoyed leaning back against the generous top boulder, soaking up the light and energies of this peaceful environment, Tracy practices yoga and the boys run around throwing sticks.... some going nowhere... some going somewhere....: