Tag: healing

Sacred Steps on the Via Francigena Pilgrim Route

by Fitness Excel, posted in Uncategorized

I am off walking part of the St Francigena Pilgrim route this Saturday 9th starting in Italy, I hope the foot stays strong, after slipping whilst running on the hills, and suffering an ankle sprain to the right foot, 6 weeks ago. I have been working hard on Pilates exercises for strength, balance and flexibility and now feeling in a good place to start this exciting Camino. As well as the personal challenge, I will also be conducting research into the health and wellbeing of Pilgrims who walk this route as part of my MA Outdoor Education.

The Via Francigena is an ancient pilgrimage route that spans from Canterbury, England, to Rome, Italy. Similar to the more famous Camino de Santiago in Spain, the Via Francigena is a network of paths and roads that have been used for centuries by pilgrims traveling to Rome. Here is some brief information about the Via Francigena pilgrimage:

  1. Route: The route has evolved over the centuries and there are multiple variations, but the most common and well-marked path begins in Canterbury, England, and passes through France, Switzerland, and Italy, ending in Rome. The entire route covers a distance of approximately 1,200 miles (about 1,930 kilometers).
  2. Pilgrimage Experience: Like other long-distance pilgrimage routes, the Via Francigena offers a unique experience for those who undertake it. Pilgrims walk through picturesque countryside, historic towns, and villages. Along the way, they have the opportunity to meet fellow pilgrims, engage with local cultures, and visit significant religious and historical sites.
  3. Season: The best time to walk the Via Francigena depends on the specific section and your tolerance for different weather conditions. Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are generally considered the best times, as the weather is milder. Summers can be hot, and winters are often cold, especially in higher-altitude regions.
  4. Purpose: Pilgrims walk the Via Francigena for various reasons, including religious devotion, spiritual reflection, physical challenge, and cultural exploration. Some people also undertake it for historical or personal reasons.
  5. The Via Francigena offers a deeply enriching and transformative experience for those who undertake it, allowing pilgrims to connect with their faith, history, and the landscapes of Europe. It continues to be a popular pilgrimage route, attracting people from all over the world.

The Nature Cure: Reconnecting for Healing

by Fitness Excel, posted in Uncategorized

Nature and outdoor environments can play a significant role in aiding the healing process of injuries, both physical and emotional. After suffering an ankle sprain whilst hill trail running recently, I outline several ways in which spending time in nature has helped contribute to healing:

Stress Reduction: Nature is known to have a calming and soothing effect on the mind. Being surrounded by natural beauty, whether it’s a forest, a beach, or a park, can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Lower stress levels can contribute to better overall healing and recovery.

Physical Activity: Engaging in gentle physical activities in nature, such as walking, can aid circulation, improve mobility, and encourage the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Controlled and appropriate physical activity can prevent muscle atrophy, reduce stiffness, and promote overall fitness. Pilates exercises. Ankle sprains can affect balance and proprioception (awareness of body position in space). Pilates exercises often incorporate balance challenges and controlled movements, which can help retrain the proprioceptive feedback system and restore better balance to the injured ankle.

Fresh Air and Oxygen: Spending time outdoors exposes you to fresh air, which is often cleaner and more oxygen-rich than indoor air. This increased oxygen intake can help with tissue healing and cell regeneration.

Mind-Body Connection: Nature has a positive impact on mental well-being. When your mind feels better, it can positively influence your body’s ability to heal. Nature’s tranquility and beauty can promote a positive outlook, which in turn can support healing.

Distraction and Positive Engagement: Being in nature provides a change of scenery and an opportunity to engage in activities that you enjoy. This distraction can help take your mind off pain or discomfort and provide a positive focus.

Boosting Immune System: Some studies suggest that spending time in natural environments can enhance the immune system’s function. A stronger immune system can support the body’s healing process.

Enhanced Mood and Emotional Healing: Nature has been linked to improved mood, reduced anxiety, and even alleviation of symptoms of depression. Emotional well-being is closely linked to physical healing, as a positive mental state can contribute to a faster recovery.

Mindfulness and Relaxation: Nature provides an ideal setting for practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques. These practices can lower stress levels, reduce pain perception, and promote a sense of calm that aids in healing.

Rest and Restoration: Nature offers a peaceful and serene environment that can promote restorative sleep, which is crucial for the body’s healing processes.