Finding the Beauty…

If you follow my blog regularly you’d think that I’m always going on perfect hikes with perfect weather and going on amazing trips with perfectly planned itineraries, but that is not the case. Often times we will head out for a hike/snowshoe etc. and are not able to get to the trailhead because of snow (or downed trees) or are not be able to find the trailhead at all… we’ll get lost or maybe even find that the trail is burnt or that the valley is so full of smoke you can’t see the nearby mountains. Our tent has been stolen, we’ve had large animals in camp, we’ve ran out of water with multiple miles still left and we’ve spent entire days walking in the rain. Traveling provides a whole different set of uncomfortable situations: not knowing the language or what you’re eating, getting sick, or perhaps spending hours or even days waiting for that bus or plane. These “not … Continue reading

Finding the Beauty…

If you follow my blog regularly you’d think that I’m always going on perfect hikes with perfect weather and going on amazing trips with perfectly planned itineraries, but that is not the case. Often times we will head out for a hike/snowshoe etc. and are not able to get to the trailhead because of snow (or downed trees) or are not be able to find the trailhead at all… we’ll get lost or maybe even find that the trail is burnt or that the valley is so full of smoke you can’t see the nearby mountains. Our tent has been stolen, we’ve had large animals in camp, we’ve ran out of water with multiple miles still left and we’ve spent entire days walking in the rain. Traveling provides a whole different set of uncomfortable situations: not knowing the language or what you’re eating, getting sick, or perhaps spending hours or even days waiting for that bus or plane.

Kinabatangan Rain Storm

It can and will rain on your birthday…especially if you’re in the Bornean Rainforest…get ready to be soaked… I was happy to be wearing shorts for this boat ride.

These “not so fun,” surely uncomfortable, possibly disappointing, occasionally dangerous experiences are what we learn the most from. We can’t be afraid of the challenge….the only solution is to embrace it. Sometimes embracing the uncomfortable is nearly impossible, especially when you’re frustrated, exhausted and feel like screaming, but if you can do it, if you can stay in the moment, you might find something beautiful, something enjoyable.

Pole Creek Fire B/W2

A burnt forest means tons of wildflowers… well, after awhile anyway.

Pole Creek flower

Hello beautiful… I’m happy you’re here.

Some of my best experiences were born in uncomfortable moments….finding the lone flower in a burned out forest, sharing a meal of horse intestines with new friends, or rerouting a pre-planned itinerary. By embracing the uncomfortable, the disappointing, the challenging I have found freedom. SO let go of your expectations and find the beauty.

Sapa friends

Our friends treated us to a dinner of horse intestine and apricot wine followed by a trip to the love market.

Sapa friends love market

Helped the guys decide on new shirts at the Sapa Love Market.

 

 

Yoga and the Immune System

I’ve spent the previous month working on a research paper for my yoga teacher training and it was pretty tedious. I love learning, but it was taking up all of my spare time….to the point where I wasn’t even practicing yoga as much as normally would. Well, it is finally finished…and I have my freedom back. I wrote my paper on yoga and the immune system, specifically how to affects an under active immune system. I am by no means an expert on the topic, but I thought I could atleast post what I found and the resources I used.

Throughout my life I’ve always had problems with getting colds and upper respiratory infections, but I’ve noticed that when yoga is a part of my daily routine I am generally healthier, less likely to succumb to illness and less stressed out. So I’ve been curious as to whether my general wellness has been coincidence or related to my yoga practice. Much of the research on yoga and the immune system has been based on questionnaires instead of scientific evidence. Recently, more research has been done analyzing mono nuclear blood cells (MNBCs), RNA and genome analysis, but the studies have just begun. In 2013 Harvard University began a two-year study on the effects of yoga and meditation and I look forward to their results. In assembling my research I broke the yogic lifestyle down into its main components: asana, pranayama, meditation and diet and how each of these aspects relates to the function of the immune system.

 Overview of the Immune System

We will begin our exploration of yoga and the immune system by reviewing the components of the immune system. The chief organs and tissues of the immune system are the bone marrow, spleen, thymus, tonsils, Peyer’s patches, Appendix, the lymphatic nodes and vessels and the blood capillaries. In addition to these organs and tissues, the body has an auxiliary immune system that helps the body combat invading microbes. According to Steve Parker, author of The Human Body Book (2013), the auxiliary immune system consists of the lacrimal glands of the eye, the mouth and throat (production of mucus and antibacterial saliva), the respiratory tract from nose to lungs (mucus and cilia help trap and remove foreign particles and microbes), the stomach, intestines and genitourinary tract (acids, enzymes and “friendly” bacteria eliminate ingested microbes) and the skin (the body’s first line of defense against invading organisms).

Where do immune cells come from? Immune system cells, lymphocytes and phagocytes develop from stem cells within the bone marrow in a process known as lymphopoeisis. The lymphocytes are differentiated into either B cells or T cells. B cells mature within the bone marrow and make gamma globulins, protein antibodies that act on antigens (foreign proteins). The thymus, located in the mediastinum, produces 5 types of T-cells in a process called T-cell education. The 5 T-cells created are:

1)    Memory cells
2)    Lymphokine-producing cells (Lymphokines are proteins that are toxic to microbes)
3)    Cytotoxic T cells (Killer Cells)
4)    Helper T cells
5)    Suppressor T cells (Anatomy & Physiology Made Easy, 157)

The thymus is largest and most active in infancy and childhood; beginning in the teenage years the thymus decreases in activity and function as the stroma cells are replaced with adipose tissue. Although the thymus continues to decrease in productivity, the process of lymphopoeisis continues throughout adulthood.

The body has two types of immune responses: non-specific and specific and they can occur simultaneously. A non-specific immune response is a reaction to any kind of bodily damage (ex. burn) or to the presence of microbes or parasites. In a non-specific reaction, white blood cells flood the damaged area and destroy invading microbes. The main type of non-specific immune response is inflammation. There are two types of specific immune response the first is cell-mediated, which begins when T-cells recognize foreign antigens. Once the antigen is recognized, T cells rapidly multiply and enlists the help of B cells to initiate an antibody response and macrophages to destroy foreign microorganisms. The second type of specific response is antibody-mediated. When B cells recognize antigens (foreign proteins) they rapidly multiply with some of the B cells developing into antibody producing plasma cells. The antibodies attach to a microbe’s antigen sites, marking the microbe for destruction by a process known as phagocytosis, in which the microbe is engulfed and destroyed by a phagocyte (ex. a macrophage).

Not only do immune cells circulate throughout the blood system, they also circulate through the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is comprised of lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes or glands. The lymphatic vessels gather lymph from the interstitial fluid between cells, and through a system of capillaries, lymphatics and one way valves the lymph fluid is moved toward the lymph nodes. The lymph nodes hold an important position within the immune system. The lymph nodes drain lymph fluid from nearly all of the tissues in the body. Within the lymph nodes lymphocytes are produced, stored and readied for an immune response. The immune response within the lymph nodes is capable of filtering and cleansing the lymph through a process in which macrophages engulf dangerous microbes and debris. The filtered lymph is then circulated out of the lymph nodes into the thoracic duct and into the blood stream at the right and left subclavian veins.

A healthy immune system can eliminate viruses, bacteria and cancerous cells from the body. General tips to maintain a healthy, balanced immune system generally consist of stress management and proper rest, diet, and exercise. Can a complete, balanced yoga practice boost the body’s immune system?

 Yogic Diet and the Immune System

The old saying, “You are what you eat” is a friendly reminder to eat healthy, whole foods that will encourage health and wellbeing. According to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali the yogic diet is one that doesn’t add toxins to the body and it is “free of meat, fish, eggs, stimulants and excessive spice” (Satchidananda, 144). The reason for such a diet is to allow the body to sit in meditation without the interruption and discomfort of “pain, stiffness, bile, gas, etc.” (Satchidananda, 144). The yogic diet, avoids rajasic foods (ex. stimulants, heavily spiced and salty foods, and refined sugars) which can lead to overactivity and tamasic foods (ex. meat, eggs, drugs and alcohol) which can lead to lethargy, in favor of sattvic foods, which are pure, whole foods that provide the body with easily digested essential nutrients, maximum energy, vitality, strength and endurance (Yoga Mind and Body, 129).

A diet high in healthy, whole vegetables and fruits, like the yogic diet, provides the body with necessary nutrients, like phytochemicals, vitamins and minerals, for optimal function. According to Dr. Joel Fuhrman, “A phytochemically deficient diet is largely responsible for a weak immune system. Populations with a much higher intake of vegetables have much lower rates of cancer, and the longest-living populations throughout history have been those with the highest intake of vegetables in the diet (Fuhrman, 19).” Plants rich in phytochemicals are usually characterized by black, blue, red, green, and orange colors and are rich in not only vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, but also phytochemicals like carotenoids, flavanoids, polyphenols and many more micronutrients. Dr. Fuhrman also states that green vegetables have the most immune-supporting micronutrients and that diets high in raw, green vegetables are associated with a reduced risk of cancer (Fuhrman, 26). One study in Vietnam, found that children with a micronutrient rich diet had a lower rate of respiratory illness than the children in the control group, who were on a rice based diet (Fuhrman, 32). It is also shown that micronutrients like lutein, lycopene, folate, bioflavanoids, riboflavin, zinc, and selenium have immune-modulating functions (Fuhrman, 33). Recent studies have shown that the nutritional health of the host affects the genetic sequence of invading pathogens (Fuhrman, 34).  Isothiocyanates, found in cruciferous vegetables, “have been shown to increase the immune system’s cell-killing capacity and heighten the resistance to viral infection” (Fuhrman, 65). Mushrooms, berries and pomegranates also contribute to immune function.

The yogic diet utilizes nuts, seeds and lentils as the main sources of protein and fat. Flax seeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds and sesame seeds are excellent sources of vital nutrients necessary for a healthy body and immune system. Seeds provide a range of nutrients from omega-3s to vitamin E, calcium and zinc. Zinc (15 mg/day) supports antibody-mediated and cell-mediated immunity, and therefore can help fight off infections and cancer. Dr. Fuhrman concluded, through utilizing Cochrane meta-analysis, that zinc supplements help reduce both cold symptoms and the length of infection (102). Fat is also an important part of a healthy diet. Healthy fats enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and phytonutrients.

The yogic diet avoids both caffeine and alcohol, both of which suppress the immune system. Caffeine stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the fight-or-flight response and increased stress hormones. “Caffeine stresses the adrenals, the glands that sit on top of the kidneys and support the body’s immunity and energy” (Guthrie, Yoga Journal). “A 2006 study published in “Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior” found that men and women given large amounts of caffeine, three 250-milligram doses, experienced the release of higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol in response to physical and mental stress (Daniels, 2014).” Elevated cortisol levels are known to decrease the ability of your immune system to fight infections (Daniels, 2014).” Numerous studies have been done on the effects of alcohol on the immune system. While having a glass of wine or a beer may enhance immune function by increasing circulating lymphocytes, leukocytes, neutrophils, and basophils (Zabriskie). “Investigators suggest that excessive alcohol exposure weakens host defenses by impairing function of T and B lymphocytes, natural killer cells and monocytes and macrophages, decreasing the inflammatory response, altering cytokine production and causing abnormal reactive oxygen intermediate generation (Zabriskie)” the affects of binge drinking may last for up to 24 hours after the consumption of alcohol. Excessive consumption of alcohol causes liver cells to swell with fat, which can lead to alcoholic hepatitis when the liver floods with leucocytes (white blood cells) and becomes inflamed. Even moderate alcohol consumption suppresses the immune system for up to 16 hours by decreasing monocyte function and the circulation of cytokines (Zabriskie). The yogic diet, rich in vegetables and fruit and lacking alcohol and caffeine, allows the immune system to function optimally and brings balance to the body and mind.

 Meditation and the Immune System

There are a handful of studies about the benefits of meditation on the body and mind, but unfortunately there aren’t too many on its effects on the immune system (although there are quite a few on its effects on cancer). “One study found that people who attended an eight-week mindfulness meditation class (a three-hour class once a week, plus daily meditation for an hour) ended up with stronger immune systems than those people who didn’t meditate” (Guthrie, yoga journal). When practicing meditation, you release stressful thoughts and emotions and create a more positive mental, emotional, physical state, which increases oxygen and blood flow and general well-being, including thoughts of compassion, love and contentment.  According to Doc Lew Childre, “the emotions of happiness and joy have been scientifically demonstrated to increase the presence of white blood cells and the levels of antibody immunoglobulin A, both of which are fundamental to the immune response (Childre, 48-53).” A University of Wisconsin study lead by Dr. Richard Davidson found that practicing mindfulness meditation increased the activation of the left frontal portion of the brain, the area associated with lower anxiety and a more positive outlook. Dr. Davidson and his team of researchers also found that a practice in mindfulness meditation increased levels of antibodies circulating in the blood in response to the study administered flu vaccine. Harvard University began a two-year study in 2013 studying the practice of kundalini yoga and meditation and their affects on gene expression, particularly the genes that regulate stress and immune function. I am looking forward to seeing the results from the Harvard University study. I also think that the Harvard study might spark interest from other researchers in the fields of immunology and integrative medicine.

 Asanas and the Immune System

Asanas, inversions in particular, are great for increasing the circulation of lymph throughout the body. Lymph is affected by gravity; therefore by lowering the head below the heart the lymph is able to flow into the “respiratory organs where germs often enter the body. When [the body] returns to an upright position, gravity drains the lymph, sending it through [the] lymph nodes for cleansing” (White, Yoga Journal). According to Timothy McCall, author of Yoga as Medicine, “when you contract and stretch muscles, move organs around, and come in and out of yoga postures, lymph flow improves and with it lymphatic system function (McCall, 37).” Heart openers like Bridge Pose, Cobra Pose, and Camel Pose may also increase circulation to the thymus, the immunity powerhouse where disease fighting T-cells are created (Guthrie, Yoga Journal).

According to BKS Iyengar the following series of asanas can strengthen a low immune system. This series, done in a restorative fashion utilizes props, such as: bolsters, blocks, straps, rolled towels, and chairs. By supporting the neck, chest and head with the use of props the body is able to relax and the lymph can move freely.

1)    Setubandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose)
2)    Supta Baddhakonasana (Reclining Bound Angle Posture [Cobbler’s Pose])
3)    Supta Virasana (Reclining Hero Pose)
4)    Setubandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose)
5)    Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Facing Dog Pose)
6)    Salamba Sirsasana (Headstand)
7)    Viparita Dandasana (Inverted Staff Pose)
8)    Salamba Sarvangasana (Shoulderstand)
9)    Halasana (Plough Pose)
10) Setubandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose)
11) Viparita Karani (Inverted Lake Pose [Legs up the Wall with/hips on a bolster])
12) Savasana (Corpse Pose with torso propped up on bolster and head propped up slightly higher)
13) Ujjayi Pranayama (in Corpse Pose)
14)  Viloma 2 Pranayama (2 second pause after each exhale)(in Corpse Pose)
(Iyengar, 286)

Dr. Paul Martin states that, “moderate exercise elicits phagocytic activity in white blood cells” and “decreases biological reactivity to stressors” (Martin, 247-248). He also makes the case that extreme exercise increases stress, which decreases our immune system’s ability to function (Martin, 248-249). For example, intense exercise may create “a drop in two main classes of antibodies (IgA and IgM), a decline in the number and responsiveness of circulating lymphocytes and a drop in natural killer cell activity” (Martin, 249). As yoga practitioners it is important to practice ahimsa on ourselves and to remember to gently challenge ourselves without overdoing it.

 Pranayama and the Immune System

There are many benefits to the practice of pranayama; beyond calming the mind and soothing the nerves, pranayama benefits the respiratory and digestive systems, which support the immune system. The practice of Ujjayi Pranayama, according to B.K.S. Iyengar “aerates the lungs, removes phlegm, [and] gives endurance (Iyengar, Light on Yoga, 443).”  Surya Bhedana, a pranayama practice of inhaling through the right nostril and exhaling through the left nostril “increases digestive power, soothes and invigorates the nerves, and cleans the sinuses (Iyengar, Light on Yoga, 445).” Iyengar also teaches that, “Both Bhastrika and Kapalabhati activate and invigorate the liver, spleen, pancreas, and abdominal muscles. Thus the digestion is improved, the sinuses are drained, the eyes feel cool and one has a general sense of exhilaration (Iyengar, Light on Yoga, 450).” One other pranayama practice that may boost the immune system is called Sitali Pranayama, Sitali is a cooling pranayama in which the mouth forms an O and the tongue curls up on the outer edges, the inhale is through the tongue and mouth and the exhale is through the nose, using Ujjayi technique. This method of pranayama is “beneficial in cases of low fever and biliousness (Iyengar, Light on Yoga 452)” and “activates the liver and spleen (Iyengar, Light on Yoga, 452).” By calming the mind and soothing the nerves, a strong practice in pranayama can reduce stress and its associated hormones, thereby allowing the body to utilize its energy optimally. Pranayama’s ability to cleanse the sinuses, drain mucus, and activate the spleen brings balance to the immune system and boosts the immune systems ability to recognize and remove foreign microbes and damaged or infected cells.

Yogis have been applying yogic principles and practices to live healthy, fulfilling lives for centuries; and modern medicine is just now realizing the benefits of a full yogic practice, one that includes asana, pranayama, meditation and proper diet. One small study conducted by the University of Oslo found that a practice in yoga, pranayama, and meditation (Sudarshan Kriya and Related Practices) had a “rapid and significantly greater effect on gene expression in PBMCs compared with the control regimen” (Qu S., 2013) of walking followed by listening to relaxing music. PBMCs are peripheral blood mononuclear cells like lymphocytes, macrophages and monocytes that function as the body’s main line of defense against invading organisms. With each scientific study being conducted on the practice of yoga scientists are finding multiple health benefits. Western medical practitioners are realizing the benefits of yoga as a method to reduce stress, boost the immune system, and heal the human body.

 Bibliography

(2005). Anatomy & Physiology Made Incredibly Easy! (Incredibly Easy! Series®). Ambler, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins

Childre, D. L. (1994). Freeze-Frame. Boulder Creek, CA: Planetary Publications.

Cruikshank, T. (2010). Optimal Health for a Vibrant Life: A 30-Day Program to Detoxify and Replenish Body and Mind. Portland, OR: Pamela Pfiffner, P3XPDX.

Daniels, C. (2014). How Caffeine Affects the Immune System. http://www.livestrong.com/article/507741-how-caffeine-affects-the-immune-system/

Guthrie, K. Immunity Boost. http://www.yogajournal.com/lifestyle/2808

Iyengar, B.K.S. (1979). Light on Yoga: Yoga Dipika. New York, NY: Schoken Books.

Iyengar, B.K.S. (2001). Yoga: The Path To Holistic Health. London, UK: Dorling Kindersley Limited.

Kitamura, M. Harvard Yoga Students Find Proof Of  Meditation Benefits. http://yoganonymous.com/research-harvard-yoga-students-find-proof-of-meditation-benefit/

Martin, P. (1997). The Healing Mind: The Vital Links Between Brain and Behavior, Immunity and Disease. New York, NY: St. Martins Griffin.

McCall, T. (2007). Yoga as Medicine: The Yogic Prescription for Health and Healing. New York, NY: Bantam Books.

Parker, S. (2013). The Human Body Book (Second Edition). New York, NY: DK Publishing.

Satchidananda, S.S. (2012). The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. Buckingham, VA: Integral Yoga Publications, Satchidananda Ashram-Yogaville.

University Of Wisconsin-Madison. (2003, February 4). University Of Wisconsin Study Reports Sustained Changes In Brain And Immune Function After Meditation. ScienceDaily. Retrieved February 5, 2014 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2003/02/030204074125.htm

Qu S, Olafsrud SM, Meza-Zepeda LA, Saatcioglu F (2013) Rapid Gene Expression Changes in Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes upon Practice of a Comprehensive Yoga Program. PLoS ONE 8(4): e61910. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0061910

Winter, E. & Little, T. Immunity Boost. http://www.yogajournal.com/practice/2695

(2008). Yoga Mind and Body. London, UK. Dorling Kindersley Limited

Zabriskie, N. Four Factors That Sabotage a Healthy Immune System. http://www.vrp.com/immune-system/immune-system/four-factors-that-sabotage-a-healthy-immune-system

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You Want Me To Write What????

A research paper!!! My jaw immediately drops to the floor and my head spins just thinking about it. For my yoga teacher training we’re required to write a 5-8 page research paper on yoga (and give a 30 minute presentation)….any aspect of yoga, it can really be about anything we want. It took me 3 1/2 months just to pick a topic and now it’s due in three weeks!!!! Eeek!!!

Yes, I’ve begun the research, but it’s so easy to get distracted. Do I really want to read medical studies or do I want to look at pictures of beautiful women doing amazing asanas?(have you seen my pinterest?)…and then try to recreate them…albeit not so beautifully or gracefully or even at all. It’s been tough to stay focused. My goal tomorrow is to atleast get it outlined and maybe one or two sections done.

Oh yeah, my paper’s on yoga and the immune system, which really just boils down to yoga, stress management and it’s impact on the immune system.

If my paper turns out “okay” I’ll post it here, but no promises.

So here’s to having no life!!!

The Downside to Yoga Teacher Training

My YTT is spread out over the course of 7 months…that’s along time. It sounded great when I signed up for it. I thought it would really give me a chance to integrate yoga into my life, and I’m not just talking about asanas people….I do yoga every damn day (well almost)… I’m talking about living my yoga and living in a yogic way. This weekend marks the halfway point and I can honestly say, I’m like “niyama what?!!?!?!” “chakra where?” This is not boding well, and instead of catching up on my reading I’m writing about how I don’t know what the hell is going on. How did this happen? I unintentionally quit the spiritual journal; I thought I’d pick it up again after the new year, predictably I have not. I can’t sit still for a 10 minute meditation to save my life… and practicing kapalabhati…ugh!!!

Breathe…

My yoga teacher said there will come a point where I am hungry for all of this. Am I not there? I want to teach yoga, I want to live the yogic way, but when it comes down to actually doing it…. I am struggling to say the least. I have to turn in my spiritual journal at tomorrow night’s class…and it’s empty…completely. An entire month of empty pages. I am tempted to lie and just make up 30 something days of revelations and insights, but that’s not very yogic either.

Instead, I’m going to practice ahimsa (nonviolence) and try not to beat myself up over all of this lack of discipline. I need to remind myself that (as cliche as it sounds) it’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey….and my path might just be a little longer than others.

Now to cram 6 weeks worth of studying into just a few hours!

Namaste!

Life is Hectic

I apologize for not posting recently….we’ve been super busy and life has been a bit crazy lately. With the holidays upon us, packing and getting ready to store our entire lives, helping a friend with wedding stuff, selling things on craigslist, taking artwork down, planning our trip and buying flights….I’ve hardly had time to cook let alone eat. The crockpot has been amazing….we’re trying to empty our pantry and freezer…so we’ve made pulled pork and slow-cooked pinto beans with chicken (for tostadas)…and a warm cabbage salad and vegetarian tacos, but I haven’t had time to post or edit the photos. Hopefully I’ll have an hour or two this afternoon or tomorrow to get some posts done. Until then….happy holidays!!!

2012 Gift Ideas for the Adventurer in Your Life

Yep, it’s that time of year again. Time for Black Friday madness, Cyber Monday and American consumerism at its finest. Here are some great gift ideas for the adventurer in your life.

1. GoPro HD HERO2 or GoPro HD HERO3….so they can capture all of their insane adventures…in HD.

2. Sea to Summit eVent Compression Dry Sack or the even lighter Granite Gear eVent Sil Compression DrySack. Whether they’re hiking in Olympic National Park, trekking across Borneo or circumnavigating an island these will keep clothing and gear packed tight and dry.

20120217-085439.jpgGranite Gear Drysack

3. A waterproof watch like a Timex Expedition or Ironman.

4. A rugged camera like the Olympus TG-1iHS 12 MP Waterproof Digital Camera which claims to be waterproof to 40 ft., drop-proof to 6.6 ft., freeze-proof to 14°F and crush-proof to 220 pounds.

5. A compressible fleece or jacket like the Patagonia Re-Tool Snap-T® or Patagonia Down Sweater. They will love having a super warm and cozy layering piece on their next backcountry outing or summit attempt.

6. DeLorme Earthmate PN-60w with Topo North America and Map Pack and DeLorme inReach Two-Way Satellite Communicator. We LOVE our Earthmate it’s super easy to use and it works really well…even in really remote locations. Our’s is a slightly older model, but the new one combined with the inReach will give everyone some peace of mind…especially if your adventurer is an adrenaline junky, solo backpacker….or slightly reckless. The inReach allows them to send out messages saying they’re okay…or if they’re in need of help.

7. Whether they’re needing to purify water high in the Himalayas or in the backcountry of Eastern Oregon a water purification system like a SteriPEN with pre-filter makes it ridiculously easy.

8. A collapsible, foldable, backpack like the Gregory Miwok 22 Daypack that can be used for daytrips from camp or early morning summits.

9. A fleece lined wool beanie like the ones from Patagonia have an awesome fit and will keep them warm without being itchy.

10. Stocking stuffers like hand warmers, energy gels, carabiners, lithium batteries will also be greatly appreciated by your adventurer.

Blah…Trip Planning Can Feel Like A Second Job

I’m not gonna lie…Steve and I are leaving for Asia in just over 2 months and I am starting to feel overwhelmed. There is so much to do before we leave…itinerary and budget planning,  getting vaccinations (because I still don’t have all of mine), selling off the wedding stuff, selling the car and figuring out exactly what to pack and what to pick up on the road.

backpack as chair

My backpack’s first trip out of the country. My backpack made an excellent chair while I waited for the van between Tulum and Sian Kaan Biosphere.

We’re realizing that we are both in need of new packs…mine is only 5 years old and it’s starting to fall apart; it’s ripping at the seams and missing straps. What on earth do you pack for 6 months abroad when you’ll be doing everything from trekking to Everest Base Camp, summiting Mount Kinabalu, exploring cities and ruins throughout SE Asia, scuba diving in Sipidan, Malaysia and island hopping across Indonesia. With a 6 month trip every ounce counts, so I don’t want to pack any extras.

Daypack for two week vacation

I packed everything I needed for a two week vacation to Roatan in a daypack (the maroon and grey one on the right…Steve’s stuff is the pile on the left)…now I need to do something equally amazing for our upcoming trip; I need to keep my pack light and keep my husband, the chronic over-packer, from packing his whole life into his pack.

Plus we’ve gotta close up shop here…put everything in storage and get the dogs ready for 6 months with “Grandma.” Pre-order all of their food and set up a boarding plan so my mom can get some time away from the monkeys.

So here is my plan for achieving sanity and getting shit done.

1. Write it down.

2. Delegate.

3. Start now and stay focused.

I might need a friendly reminder or two.

 

Rain, Rain, Go Away

Rain, Rain, Go Away

What’s a girl to do when she gets called off of work because of rain??? Drink as many pumpkin ales as possible, make some squash soup and carve a couple Jack-o-lanterns, of course! Summer has finally come to an end and I better embrace fall or it’s going to be a really crummy season!!! Now is the time to start checking things off of my “To Do” list and to start planning our six month honeymoon.

Let’s celebrate the first rain of the season!!!

Spicy Kabocha Soup

Pumpkin Ales

Fancy Cheese