Experience walking the Way to Santiago with a coach
way of life
Are you are at a turning point in your life, seeking meaning and purpose, looking for more connection with yourself and your desires? For nine centuries, pilgrims have been walking the Camino in search for answers.
The Way of Compostela, the 'Camino' has become a metaphor for the path of life; A path with a direction, a goal, which we approach every day, one step at a time. It is an opportunity to get away from our everyday life and get closer to what really matters to us, the opportunity to let go of what we no longer need and find new sources of nurture.
I have walked on all four continents (not Antarctica, it's too cold for me ;-)). The Camino's call happened last year and I left for 10 weeks, on a whim. This adventure was different from all the others because the inner journey plays a very powerful role. It made me want to accompany pilgrims on their Way.
“Coaching and walking is about consciously harnessing the experience of wandering in nature to achieve transformation”
walk with a coach
Walking on the Way promotes self-awareness and is also an opportunity for decisions and life changes. As a coach I encourage you to get to the heart of your questions and beliefs – to find out what is right and true for you and what you can let go. Step by step, you gain in clarity and lightness, as you move forward. Your Way makes sense! Your past experiences and your future meet in the present moment of the path.
I walk with you from start to end. Your coaching will consist of individual and group sessions.
Individual coaching: by skype 2x1h before leaving to clarify your expectations and prepare you and 1h after to integrate your experience. During the journey, at least 1 hour of coaching every 2 days, according to your needs.
Group coaching (optional) : by skype, 1 hour before leaving to meet your fellow travelers. During the journey, to create a dynamic of mutual help and exchange, usually around a glass of wine at the end of the day!
how does it work?
This experience is designed to promote your own 'self-leadership', to give you the means to do it 'your Way', and continue progress after the walk is finished. You will learn to meet yourself and others with an attitude of curiosity and openness.
Every morning, after breakfast, we take a time of centering to consider the day and see what is right for us. I will offer you different invitations and exercises to stimulate new experiences, depending on where you are and what you need.
Walking is the core activity of the day. You can choose to walk with the group or alone (we use GPS to make sure no one gets lost!). We walk between 15 and 25km a day. It may seem like a lot but we have time to rest and restore ourselves en route. You can always take a taxi or bus to the next destination if your body needs rest. The central experience of the Way is to listen to your individual needs and to recognize what is right for you.
In the evening we meet in the pilgrim inns, often dormitories with bunk beds. We often go to bed early and get up early on the Way! Sometimes we will choose to sleep more luxuriously in private hostels.
when and where
6th to 21st of July - main language: French
Camino del Norte from Avilés - 281 km, 16 days. A week on the north coast of Spain then a week inland. We will arrive in Santiago when the city celebrates Saint James!
6th to 21th September - main language: English
Camino Frances from Leon -304 km, 16 days. We follow the busiest path, the one that follows the Milky Way with varied landscapes.
Extensions: Many pilgrims choose to continue their way to Finisterre (about 100km from Santiago), on foot or by bus.
If you are interested but the dates do not suit you, do not hesitate to contact me to explore other possibilities.
Does the person create the journey or does the journey create the person?
practicalities
INCLUDED
- Coaching: €900. Deposit of 50% at registration, refundable up to 60 days before departure. The remaining 50% is payable 7 days before departure.
- The trip takes place with a minimum of 3 people and a maximum of 5 people.
- I provide you the 'credential del peregrino' the booklet which collects stamps and is obligatory to have access to the pilgrim hostels and to get the 'Compostela' in Santiago.
NOT INCLUDED
- Meals and accommodation: allow a minimum of €25 to €30 per day, depending on the choice of catering and accommodation (between €400 to €500 minimum for 16 days).
- Transport and travel insurance
PREPARATION
I will provide you with a detailed packing list at registration. It is possible to have your backpack transported from one stage to another if necessary at extra cost. I will also suggest a physical training program adapted to your situation.
GOOD TO KNOW
The interior of the Saint Jacques Cathedral will be under renovation throughout the year 2019. The pilgrims' mass cannot be celebrated there but alternatives have been planned.