Advice provided by the guides at Mountain Trek on a variety of health, nutrition, fitness and hiking topics.

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Everything You Need to Know About Sodium

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Salt

If you’ve ever used the phrase, “Pass the salt please?” chances are there’s too much salt in your diet. While a certain amount of sodium is necessary for our bodies to function properly, the majority of us sprinkle salt far too liberally.

In this post, we take a look at one of humanity’s oldest seasonings, how it impacts our bodies, and how to monitor our intake.

Are salt and sodium the same?

No. Salt is a compound called Sodium Chloride while Sodium is a chemical element (Na) found in the Earth’s crust.

What does sodium do for your body?

Sodium is an essential nutrient for human beings because it regulates blood volume, blood pressure, osmotic equilibrium, and pH levels in our bodies. Sodium is also needed for your muscles and nerves to work properly. In fact, each of us needs a minimum of 500 milligrams of sodium a day. This is where salt, or Sodium Chloride, enters the picture. It’s the principal source of sodium in the human diet and one of our most ancient and ubiquitous food seasonings – in fact, for thousands of years, salting has been an important method of food preservation.

What are some sources of sodium?

Sodium occurs naturally in most foods such as celery, beets, milk, and even our drinking water (although the amount varies depending on the source). These days, unfortunately, most of our sodium intake comes from processed foods: Monosodium glutamate, sodium nitrite, sodium saccharin, baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), and sodium benzoate can be found in items such as Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, onion salt, garlic salt, potato chips, and bouillon cubes. Processed meats like ham, sausage, bacon, and canned soups and vegetables are all examples of foods that contain a lot of sodium. And of course, a drive-thru at McDonald’s, or any other fast-food restaurant, will leave you filled with food that’s extremely high in sodium.

Can too much salt/sodium in your diet be harmful?

Absolutely. At Mountain Trek, we recognize every person is unique, and recommended sodium intakes will vary based on age, metabolism, amount of exercise/sweat, medications, etc. However, Health Canada sets the adequate intake of sodium for women at 1500 mg daily, and a tolerable upper intake level of 2300 mg/day. How much exactly is that? Well, 2300 mg is the amount of sodium that’s found in one teaspoon of salt. And recent research shows we’re consuming a lot more than that. The average North American man consumes about 3500 mg of sodium every day and women consume 2500 mg. Their large amounts promote hypertension, an ailment that causes 7.6 million premature deaths worldwide. If you’re chronically eating a diet that’s high in salt you are at risk of high blood pressure, which in turn increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. There are also some studies that suggest too much salt consumption can increase the risk of osteoporosis and kidney problems.

Sodium and exercise

Ask any Mountain Trek guest who’s hiked 10km with us and they’ll tell you that they sweat. A lot. And when you perspire, your body loses sodium, potassium, and other essential minerals and nutrients. If you’re hiking, jogging, kayaking, or doing any athletic activity over long distances, and you don’t rehydrate properly, you could be contributing to a decreased blood/sodium concentration. And the result might be ringing in your ears or mild heart palpitations. (In extreme instances you could succumb to hyponatremia, a condition similar to dehydration in which nausea, muscle cramps, disorientation, slurred speech, and confusion may occur.) Does that mean you should drink Gatorade every time you exercise? Absolutely not! Gatorade is full of sugar and it’s not an effective electrolyte replenishment tool. (For more about, electrolytes, check out our blog called “Electrolytes – Myth Busted!”)

Everybody responds differently to exercise and therefore our sodium needs vary. Fortunately at Mountain Trek, our team of nutritionists and chefs are all looking out for you 24-7. Before we head out on the hiking trails we make sure you’re getting the proper amount of sodium in your diet through our delicious meals, and once on the trail our experienced guides monitor how you’re feeling all along the way and have electrolyte supplements like Vega Sport on hand.

How to lower your salt intake

  1. Avoid processed foods as one small meal could have twice the recommended daily intake of sodium. Stick to whole foods, vegetables, and fruit
  2. Cook with less salt
  3. Drink lots of water to flush excess salt
  4. Sauna or steam to sweat out excess salts
  5. If you’re experiencing a craving for salty foods, try these seasoning alternatives:
    Garlic powder (not garlic salt)
    Roasted garlic
    Granulated sea kelp or sesame seeds
    Onion powder (not onion salt)
    Lime or lemon juice
    Veggie Salt
    Nutritional Yeast

What is Mountain Trek?

Mountain Trek is the health reset you’ve been looking for. Our award-winning health retreat, immersed in the lush nature of British Columbia, will help you detox, unplug, recharge, and roll back years of stress and unhealthy habits. To learn more about the retreat, and how we can help you reset your health, please email us at info@mountaintrek.com or reach out below:

Secrets for Integrating the Mtn Trek Experience into your Daily Life

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Stretch to relief stress when travelling on business

The Mountain Trek program changes your health on many levels. Building muscle, detoxing impurities and burning fat are just some of the ways our guests transform during their stay with us. What people may not realize is Mountain Trek’s focus on exercise, nutrition, stress management, and overall wellness will change people’s lives forever. One or two weeks with us will kick start a new perspective on healthy living practices and when you eventually return to your daily routine, you’ll have an arsenal of good habits to choose from.

Of course, immersion in an intensive fitness program replete with teachers, personal trainers, chefs and hiking guides all set in a stunning and remote wilderness is ideal for fully focusing on one’s health. But bringing this hard-earned knowledge into the routines and schedules back home can be a challenge.

Tips for integrating Mountain Trek into your daily life to keep the experience alive

Manage expectations

Think of Mountain Trek as a retreat from “real life,” a Disneyland of sorts for health-conscious adults. We all have commitments and schedules that require our time and energy in our daily life and we can’t expect to focus on our fitness, nutrition, detoxification, metabolism and stress management for eight hours a day like we did at Mountain Trek. Five to eight hours of exercise per week will suffice.

Take a few days off

Integrate 1-2 things from your list of Health Formulas until they become habitual, then pick another 1 or 2 on your list. Balance these new habits of nutrition, exercise, stress reduction, sleep hygiene, or detoxification with a break of 2 days per week.

Set goals

Make them specific, measurable, attainable and anchored in the time that you allot for fitness.

Take small steps

Integrate your goals gradually and realistically. It’s okay to go for small hikes instead of climbing to the top of the mountain right away. These small steps turn into new habits which eventually take hold in our lifestyle.

Surround yourself with like-minded people

It’s easier to feel motivated if you have friends that will support you and join you in your healthy activities.

Keep a journal

It’s an excellent way to notice and document the changes that you’re going through. Try not to edit or censor yourself. If you can let the stream of consciousness flow, often your heart and mind will reveal some fascinating truths about your fitness journey.

Be gentle with yourself

When you experience some setbacks around your goals, as we all do from time to time, be kind to yourself. The more love and compassion you show towards yourself, the easier it will be to regain confidence and get back on track.

Remember there is no “one size fits all”

Make meal and exercise plans that are right for you. You’re unique so don’t compare yourself to your workout partners, Olympic athletes or favorite movie stars.

Reward Yourself

An occasional beer or ice cream or missed week of exercise won’t kill you. But trying to eat perfectly and have the perfect body, on the other hand, just might. Remember, you’re not on a quest for perfection, you’re on a quest for progression towards a healthy mind, body and soul. And that can only be attained one step and one day at a time.

Of course, in order to integrate the Mountain Trek teachings, you’ll have to join us first!

What is Mountain Trek?

Mountain Trek is the health reset you’ve been looking for. Our award-winning health retreat, immersed in the lush nature of British Columbia, will help you detox, unplug, recharge, and roll back years of stress and unhealthy habits. To learn more about the retreat, and how we can help you reset your health, please email us at info@mountaintrek.com or reach out below:

Top 5 On-the-Go Snacks

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Healthy Snacks
It seems the word ‘busy’ doesn’t even begin to cover most of our days. And finding healthy snacks when you are constantly on the go can seem like a hard task. Especially when many of the store-bought snack options are not even real food.

It may be tempting to grab that processed protein bar, but don’t act so fast. Here are five great, on-the-go healthy snack options that will give you even more energy than processed bars but are made from whole foods, won’t break the bank, and are easy to prepare.

Yum! Hummus and veggies!

Hummus and Veggie Sticks

This is a great mix of carb and protein that you can throw together in under 30 seconds as you walk out your door in the morning. Hummus which is made from the king of beans – the chickpea, is packed with fiber, folate, zinc, and B vitamins – talk about an energy boost! And if you have that extra minute, add a few slices of cucumber for some extra crunch and vitamins.

Dried Fruit & Seeds

Dried Fruit and Seeds

A mix of your favourite dried fruit – raisins, apricots, mangos, figs, papaya and even tomatoes to name a few – along with some crunchy nuts is an easy-to-assemble snack. Plus, a handful of this delicious combo is the perfect fuel for your body to tackle that late morning slump. Dried fruit contains fiber, vitamins A, C, E and Iron. If you include dried mangos you’ll also add omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to the mix, which are necessary for healthy skin and immunity health. The crunchy nuts add essential minerals such as magnesium, potassium, iron and zinc as well as loads of vitamins.

Coconut Bliss Balls

Coconut Apricot Bliss Balls

These take a bit of planning but are so worth it. You can find the recipe here. Trust us, there’s a reason we put “Bliss” in their name. With just the right amount of spice and sweetness these homemade bars are easily prepared over the weekend to last you the entire week ahead. Imagine creamy almond butter creamed together with cranberries, apricots and a healthy dose of dried coconut. Add to that the perfect blend of ginger, cardamom and zest of orange and you have a pop-in-your-mouth energy boost.

Loki Dip

Veggie Sticks and Loki Dip

Eat your veggies! We know we should. If only there was a way to enjoy those relatively boring but vitamin- and fiber-packed sticks of carrots and celery. Allow us to introduce you to veggie sticks with loki dip, a snack that is the perfect combination of salty and sweet. The sweet crispy veggies dipped in a salty, lemon and creamy dip will fill you up while satisfying your taste buds.

Low Sugar Fresh Fruit

Low-Sugar Fresh Fruit

If you like super simple, you’ll like this snack idea. No cutting, stirring or assembly required. A quick visit to your local organic grocery store can stock you with enough fruit to last a couple of weeks at a time. Fruit is filled with vitamins and many also contain fibre. This combination will satisfy your sweet cravings while also keeping you feeling fuller longer. Pick your favourites: apples, oranges, raspberries, bananas, blueberries, pears – there are so many tasty and sweet choices. As a general rule, pick those that are in season for best flavour.

What is Mountain Trek?

Mountain Trek is the health reset you’ve been looking for. Our award-winning retreat, immersed in the lush nature of British Columbia, will help you unplug, recharge, and roll back years of stress and unhealthy habits. To learn more about the retreat, and how we can help you reset your health, please email us at info@mountaintrek.com or reach out below:

Electrolytes: Myth-busted!

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IMG_8791This past week one of our alumni, Mary, wrote on Mountain Trek Facebook’s wall, “Can you post info on when to use electrolytes? I wish I had taken better notes during that lecture!”

Mary is refering to one of the many different lectures our guides deliver during the Mountain Trek program. Topics include “Nutrition,” “Sleep,” and “Stress,” among others. Also, during the morning meal Kirkland or Cathy usually discuss various subjects, including electrolytes.

Because of the fact guests work out approximately 6 to 8 hours a day, and relax in saunas and on massage tables in the evenings while at Mountain Trek, staff are always conscience of people’s energy levels and hydration. Here are five quick myths that guests learn about electrolytes and ones that every active person should know.

1. Gatorade is a great source for electrolytes – FALSE

Advertisers market Powerade and Gatorade as essential for hard-working, professional athletes but the fact is drinks such as these are full of sugar and artificial sweeteners and are more harmful than anything. At Mountain Trek we prefer to use Vega Sport Electrolyte Hydrator – a natural, alkaline-forming drink mix that is free from sugar and sweeteners. It has 11% potassium per 400g and 4% sodium per 100g.

2. I should consume electrolytes before and/or during every workout – FALSE

Electrolyte needs vary from person to person and depend on a variety of factors including body size and fitness level. At Mountain Trek, the guides may consume electrolytes once every two weeks but guests usually get them twice a week or more because of all the sweating and detoxing that’s done during workouts and sauna sessions. However, consuming too many electrolyte supplements overloads the body with sodium and does more harm than good.

3. I should only consume electrolytes when my muscles cramp – FALSE

Although there are some different thoughts about what causes cramping, most scientists agree it’s a body’s warning sign that you’re getting dangerously low on fluids and electrolytes. By then it’s too late to doing anything immediate, however, because cramping means the damage is already done and it’ll take time for the electrolytes to be absorbed again. Each body is different so you’ll have to be aware of your energy levels at all times and react accordingly but a general rule of thumb is if you start to experience ringing in your ears or are mild heart palpitations immediately stop what you’re doing and consume a serving of electrolyte. (In those cases your body requires sodium.) if you feel your muscles may start to cramp or your energy is starting to flat-line then you also need an electrolyte (because your potassium stores are depleted.) In each case, consume a glass of water with an electrolyte supplement dissolved in it and continue to hydrate. And remember that next time you perform a similar workout you will need to prepare accordingly.

4. Salt pills are sufficient right? – FALSE

Salt tablets are an unacceptable choice for electrolyte replenishment because they only supply two of the electrolytes your body requires (sodium and chloride) and they can oversupply sodium, thereby causing further damage. Again, stick to a natural, sugar-free electrolyte supplement such as Vega Sport.

5. It will require time and practice to dial in my electrolyte requirements – TRUE

There isn’t an easy answer when it comes to electrolyte consumption. To use a metaphor, electrolytes are like the oil in a car: they’re not the fuel that makes you go, but they’re essential in keeping the engine working properly. And, similar to the oil tank in your car, you don’t want it to ever be empty, nor do you want it over full. The key is to always have electrolytes on hand and to monitor your pre-, during, and post-workout habits. If you have a long sauna session one night and then work out for two hours the next day and start to feel a leg cramp coming on, then you’ll know the next time you do something similar to include an electrolyte supplement at breakfast, a few hours before your workout.

 

Why It’s Important to Choose Water Instead of Soda

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Clean water pouring into the glass next to the stones on the old wooden table

Concerns of heart disease, obesity, and diabetes are on the rise. People are rethinking their nutrition and the types of liquids they consume. It’s no secret that drinking too much soda is not good for your body, but why should you choose water over Coca-Cola and Pepsi? 

The two companies have engaged in many different marketing campaigns, and today they own some of the most recognizable brands on the planet. In fact, 1.8 billion bottles of Coke are consumed around the world every day! Both Coca-Cola and Pepsi have made efforts by introducing no-sugar, no-calorie beverage options, but these diet versions still have harmful effects.

The fact is, no matter how these products are advertised they will never come close to the health benefits of water. 

Why You Should Choose Water

  • Drinking 5 glasses of water daily decreases the risk of colon cancer by 45%, bladder cancer by 50%, and breast cancer by 79%.
  • One glass of water shut down midnight hunger pangs for almost 100% of those who participated in a University of Washington study.
  • Preliminary research indicates that drinking 8-10 glasses of water a day could significantly ease back and joint pain for up to 80% of sufferers.
  • Lack of water is the most common cause of daytime fatigue. Drinking a few glasses of water easily rectifies it.
  • Consuming water is the best method to detox and flush impurities from the body.

What’s in Coca-Cola and Pepsi

  • The active ingredient in Coke and Pepsi is phosphoric acid. Its pH is 2.8. It will dissolve a nail in about 4 days.
  • Phosphoric acid also leaches calcium from bones and is a major contributor to the rising increase in osteoporosis.
  • Coke and Pepsi contain High Fructose Corn Syrup. One can of cola has the equivalent of 10 teaspoons of sugar, which is 100% of your recommended daily intake. 
  • Citric Acid, while not harmful in small quantities, excessive amounts can be harmful to your stomach and liver.
  • A can of cola has approximately two-thirds of the amount of caffeine that your morning cup of coffee contains. While safe in small amounts, we have a few reasons to keep the caffeine to a minimum. 

What is Mountain Trek?

Mountain Trek is the health reset you’ve been looking for. Our award-winning health retreat, immersed in the lush nature of British Columbia, will help you detox, unplug, recharge, and roll back years of stress and unhealthy habits. To learn more about the retreat, and how we can help you reset your health, please email us at info@mountaintrek.com or reach out below:

Q&A with client Debra Fordham

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Mountain Lodge in Britsh Columbia

Welcome to the first of our Q&A series, which features guests who have visited Mountain Trek. Each came to our fitness retreat for their own reasons and they all had different experiences. In this inaugural piece we speak with Debra Fordham, a television writer living in Los Angeles, California, who visited Mountain Trek for a week in May 2012. Since that time she has lost almost 70 pounds and is training to run a half-marathon again. This is Debra’s story.

Q&A with Mountain Trek Alumni Debra

Debra Fordham (second from left) on her visit to Mountain Trek.

Hi Debra. Thank you so much for agreeing to speak with us. Firstly, how did you find out about Mountain Trek?

I was feeling low one day and sitting at the computer googling generic topics like “fitness retreats” and “weight loss” when the Mountain Trek link popped up. I checked out the Trip Advisor comments and most of them included the words “life changing.” It struck me as a bit expensive so I called my friend to ask advice. She said, “How much would you spend to change your life?” I booked the next day.

Tell us about your expectations?

Well, I went in 80 pounds overweight and out of shape. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting it to be as hard as it was. I knew we’d get good food and go on hikes but I was surprised by the raw physical challenge and the evening lessons regarding healthy living. That said, the experience literally did change my life. After six days of eating healthy foods, exercising and detoxing my entire physiology changed. When I got home I no longer craved soda or Oreos.

What was the highlight of your experience at Mountain Trek?

I wanted to buy a house in the Kootenay region. It’s just so beautiful there. I also really enjoyed Kirkland’s lectures in the evening – they gave me not only an understanding of what I was going through in terms of physiology but I was also given tools to use when I returned home.

What was the low-light of your experience at Mountain Trek?

I wanted to physically give up at one point. I was thinking of myself as this fat girl who doesn’t exercise and it was all too much but the wonderful thing is the staff wouldn’t let me give up – they just inspired me to keep going. I was amazed at how motivated I was around the guides, most especially Kirkland, Cathy and Krista.

Q&A Success Story

Debra, over 50 pounds lighter

What was it like when you returned home?

When I got home I craved healthy foods. I also craved exercise and I continued hiking around my area. And I acted on Kirk’s lectures – I started cooking for myself. I made bliss balls and Mt Trek soups and I stopped eating processed food.

What were some of the challenges you faced when you returned home?

I was doing really well until the holidays when I got together with my family. We have such a wacked idea of food – we eat like crazy. I had people at my house at Christmas and so we started baking and because of the family dynamics – well, you just don’t want to eat tofu salad while someone you love is eating something unhealthy. It’s kind of a social statement not joining in.

How did you overcome those challenges?

Mountain Trek staff kept stressing “Have more good days than bad” and that really is the key. Sometimes you just have to eat the snacks on the airplane and it’s important you not beat yourself up about it. I don’t let it derail me. I’ll enjoy a “no limits” great meal but the next morning I’m back on the pony eating foods from the local farmer’s market.

What would be your advice to someone who is thinking about coming to Mountain Trek?

Go!!!! With five exclamation points! For some people it may seem expensive but like my friend says, “How much would you pay to change your life?” You have to take it seriously – you’ll be challenged but it really will be the launching pad to changing your life.

Anything else you want to tell our readers about your experience?

I can’t wait to come back! I’m coordinating with someone who I met there last May and we’re going to return together. That was another benefit of the experience – the alumni are an amazing resource and they become your friends.

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How to Properly Fit a Pair of Hiking Boots

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hiking boots on grass with flowers

Before venturing out for a hike, it’s important to have the right footwear. There are two things you need to know to find the perfect pair of hiking boots. Firstly, get acquainted with the different types of boots, and secondly, how to ensure a proper fit. We’ve laid out the basic information necessary to fit a pair of boots that will carry you comfortably into nature.

Types of Boots

Light Hikers AKA Trail Runners

Typically made of fabric and breathable mesh with a DWR finish, these are best suited for maintained trails. They have flexible soles and come with different grip types depending on terrain. Great for walking, trail running, and hiking for shorter distances. Depending on the strength of your ankles, you may want to opt for a higher boot. 

Light Over-Ankle Hikers

With a thicker sole, these are the better option for day hikes on maintained trails. They’ll carry you nicely over rocks, roots, and up those steep grades while giving your ankles a bit more support for your way down. Commonly found made of leather and/or fabric with a DWR finish. 

Backpacking Hikers

These boots are intended for multiday hikes into the backcountry. They have high ankle supports and thick soles designed to provide support for carrying more weight over both maintained and unmaintained trails. Also made of leather and/or fabric with a DWR finish.

Water-Proofing Your Hiking Boots

Most hiking boots come with a durable water-resistant finish. Depending on the quality of the boot and frequency of use, this can wear off after a short period of time. If you notice that water does not quickly bead and roll off a boot’s surface, it’s time to add a waterproofing treatment. 

First, clean the boot and then spray on or apply a waterproofing product such as Nikwax or Granger’s. Each company makes products specific to the material of your boot, whether it’s leather, suede, nubuck, or synthetic. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product’s label and once you’ve completed the application let the boot air dry – do not use a hairdryer.

Ensuring Proper Fit

Any reputable outdoor gear store or shoe store will have trained boot fitters on hand to take you through the selection process. They will measure all aspects of your foot (from length to width to arch size) and then suggest a number of different pairs of shoes to try. Try on at least five different pairs of shoes and be sure to lace them while standing up and putting your full weight on your foot. The correct boot for you should feel comfortable right from the beginning. 

Tips to ensure the perfect fit

Take your time 

Budget the time needed to be fitted and make the proper choice. Don’t show up to buy boots near the store’s closing time and then rush a decision.

Wait until the afternoon to shop

Feet swell as the day progresses, and you want the boots to fit well when they’re at their “pudgiest.”

Bring or buy good socks 

Bring your own merino wool or similar wicking-style socks to wear while trying shoes. We can’t say enough about the necessity of wearing a quality sock when you hike. They can make the difference between all-day comfort or misery. So many people pay top dollar for good boots, and then skimp when it comes to socks. Expect to pay a minimum of $15-$25 per pair. Merino wool is highly recommended, and there are many good synthetics in the market as well. Cotton socks hold moisture and create blisters.

Consider your foot’s measurements 

Good shop attendants will measure everything about your foot before you even consider putting a shoe one. This includes length, width, volume, and arch height.  Regarding length, when the boot is unlaced and the toes are pushed to the front of the boot there should be ¼ inch of space at the back of the boot. This small amount of space is necessary for some “give” when going up and down hills.

Note how they feel  

The right boot for you should feel comfortable from the beginning. Do not purchase a boot thinking that the comfort level will rise after a break-in period. If something is “off” in the store, then time and wear could make it worse, not better. Take time in the store to put the boots through their paces, and then wear them for several days indoors to make sure that no trouble areas develop. If during this trial time, a sore area is noted, return the boots to the store and try again. The perfect boot is out there, and this initial attention to detail will reward you with happy feet on the trail. Plan your first few hikes to be short ones, so that you and your new boots can gradually become acquainted.

So whether your walking on a gravel path, running a trail, or camping on mountain tops, use this guide to help find the right footwear to take you there! 

What is Mountain Trek?

Mountain Trek is the health reset you’ve been looking for. Our award-winning retreat, immersed in the lush nature of British Columbia, will help you unplug, recharge, and roll back years of stress and unhealthy habits. To learn more about the retreat, and how we can help you reset your health, please email us at info@mountaintrek.com or reach out below:

Letting the Body Heal

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By Jennifer Keirstead, Holistic Nutritionist

Close-up of a woman hiking with poles and backpack

Listen to your body’s cues for health.

Listening for Clues to Health

The body’s ability to heal itself has always amazed me. I suffered from asthma my entire childhood and now I’ve been puffer-free for over 15 years. I attribute my healing to listening to my body’s cues. These are the little, hidden messages that your body gives you and is its way of communicating. My asthma was a clue, a sign of my body’s obvious distress–but I just wasn’t listening.

I had never linked my need for steroid puffers to my food choices.

We all have our own unique needs. Some of the most common barriers to healing I see in my practice are food-related or stress-induced. While inadequate sleep, food allergies, and toxic overload can be contributing factors as well.

Most people suffering from chronic pain and disease are handed a prescription. I believe the self-healing approach to illness involves identifying the cause of the pain; emotional or physical. My experience has been that addressing the cause of the pain at all of the emotional, mental and physical levels brings about the most successful long term results. By addressing the underlying causes, rather than chronically masking the symptoms with medications we allow our body to heal itself.

Taking Time to Heal

There are several approaches one can take to heal themselves naturally. One important component is to remember that true healing takes time.

Begin by seeking out a healthcare professional to help discover what the root causes are. From there, create a day-to-day approach, integrating/removing one thing at a time. This tends to be less intimidating than trying to navigate everything, all at once, on your own.

Symptoms are gifts

Like life itself, our body sends messages to us daily. This feedback conveys valuable information. Listening provides insights and a deeper understanding of ways to improve our own personal health.

Drugs and other medications, which suppress symptoms, can convey a false sense of healing. Then, we may not bother to search for reasons, or to ask “why?” While drugs may certainly have a place for certain cases, pharmaceutical drugs come with their own side effects.

Just think how comforting it is to know and trust in the fact that the body is inherently programmed for healing. But, to let the body do this important work, we must allow it time and we must be patient. We do our part by adopting a sense of trust rather than fear, as we provide for ourselves simple healing balms like good food, rest and sleep, fresh air and sunshine, exercise, as well as a sense of gratitude – as well as enough time and space to connect with ourselves.

“The body is a master at self-healing. Its natural blueprint of healing wisdom is far too complex for us to completely unravel. And, that is good. It allows us to replace fear with trust. All we need is to appreciate that simple nutritional and lifestyle habits attuned to nature can do much to restore and support the body’s inherent harmony and congruency.” –Carol Kenney, Ph.D. in the Science of Natural Health

We can all heal our bodies naturally. The key is to listen to what it needs.

What is Mountain Trek?

Mountain Trek is the health reset you’ve been looking for. Our award-winning retreat, immersed in the lush nature of British Columbia, will help you unplug, recharge, and roll back years of stress and unhealthy habits. To learn more about the retreat, and how we can help you reset your health, please email us at info@mountaintrek.com or reach out below:

Be the Change: 10 Tips for Transformation

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Action expresses priorities.

What do you envision for yourself?

It’s pretty easy to get into a rut – eating patterns, inactivity, stress and lack of adequate rest all settle into a predictable rhythm. Each January, many of us plan to transform our lifestyle, but those high hopes can fizzle.

Here are 10 tips to help you make transformation a reality.

  1. Focus on one or two resolutions instead of many; dividing your mental energy in many directions makes it harder to stay on track.
  2. Choose your focus carefully; take time to sit quietly in a space free of distractions, and have a tool on hand to record your thoughts.
  3. Take time to mull over your resolution wishlist; if you can’t choose just one, begin with them all, and over the course of the month let some fall naturally away so the key ideas can emerge.
  4. Visualize your success; if you want to feel healthy, envision what that will feel like and what some of your new habits will be.
  5. Vow that you won’t stop short of attaining your goal; this can be a personal promise, with the support of friends, or to a higher power but the act of taking a solemn vow has been shown to have real benefits.
  6. Break your resolution into smaller, achievable parts; drink water instead of soda, exercise three times a week and take the stairs instead of the elevator, eliminate processed food from your cupboard are some examples.
  7. Track your progress; a journal or app will make it easier to see progress and strengthen commitment.
  8. Focus on the joy of your new habits instead of missing the old ones; remind yourself of your goal every day to keep it fresh and alive.
  9. Embed at each level; although transformation can take a long time, each step of the way is a new normal. Notice the positive habits that make each place happen and enjoy them.
  10. Celebrate your success! Choose a reward that doesn’t undermine your achievement and share your victory. Some people share in a big way, others might celebrate by taking a beloved dog for a walk.

A change of scenery like a fitness retreat of adventure vacation can be the catalyst for lasting transformation. Above all be kind to yourself as you progress. You might backslide, but bravely face getting started again. You are worth the effort.

What is Mountain Trek?

Mountain Trek is the health reset you’ve been looking for. Our award-winning health retreat, immersed in the lush nature of British Columbia, will help you detox, unplug, recharge, and roll back years of stress and unhealthy habits. To learn more about the retreat, and how we can help you reset your health, please email us at info@mountaintrek.com or reach out below: