Where Mountains Meet Mindfulness

Trail-setting has become more than just an activity for me it’s therapy, it’s communion, it’s joy wrapped in sweat and soil. Whether I go solo or with my fellow nature lovers, it’s always a chance to reconnect with the earth, with people, and with my inner peace. These trail-setters I hike with? Selfless humans with big hearts, kind souls, and boots that were made for climbing. Blessings on blessings for each one of you. Gratitude truly is like blood tonic to my existence it fuels me, keeps me light, and gives my soul rhythm.

This time, our trail led us to Nyanya, a border between Abuja and Nasarawa State. Guys, this area is home to several stunning, yet-to-be-explored mountains, clothed in serenity and whispering adventure. Many people see these hills and think, “Nope. Not climbable.” Some even say it’s unsafe. Let me burst that bubble gently it’s very safe, and a whole vibe! People are even buying land up there, and a few have started building homes! As for me, I’m eyeing Katampe Extension. Imagine living so close to a mountain that whenever I need to clear my head, I can lace up my boots and hike to sanity. Oga go just dey find me, but deep down, he’ll know, “Ah, she’s on that mountain again.” He won’t even need confirmation mountain is calling and I must go.

Anyway, back to the trail before I start pricing land and sending property agents voice notes.

Our meeting point this time was Nyanya Bridge. I hadn’t officially indicated that I was coming wasn’t sure I’d make it. But as always, my body clock did its thing and woke me up at 4 a.m. I did my prayers and dhikr, with Her Royal Highness Moori (my cat) trailing behind me like a mini queen's tail. I fed her, watered my plants 🪴, and ensured there was enough food for the day. That cat runs my schedule, no lie. After that, I called Adventure Lord to ask if I could join his ride sadly, that didn’t pan out. So, I jumped into a public ride and set off to catch the crew by 7:30 a.m.

Well, the trail-setters had decided to move early not their fault, they didn’t know I was coming. I got there at 7:25 a.m., hopped on a bike, and rode with determination to catch up. And I did just in time to see everyone tightening their boots and sipping water. They even brought a pre-hike treat: akara (bean cake) and bread for the squad. Respect.

Francis had to dash ahead to sort something pressing and told us to go on he knew the terrain like his own palm. Adventure Lord echoed the same. So, eleven of us began the climb: Elder, Jossie, OVO, Hercule, Sugar, Duni, Peruzzi, Cool Francis, Man of Faith, Adventure Lord, and yours truly.

The mountain wasted no time welcoming us with a friendly cardio slap Hercule was gasping for breath and holding his waist like he was carrying twins. It was hilarious, I won’t lie. OVO turned to me and said, “This hike go sweet.” I replied, “I hope it’ll be sweeter,” and he burst out laughing, “Ah! E be like say I dey follow wrong person hike o!” I told him, “No fear, we dey together.” I love it when the climb challenges me it’s how I know I’m alive.

We kept it lively lots of laughs, stories, and even a deep dive into the topic of relationships. We talked about how both men and women sometimes approach relationships with zero empathy, no kindness, and the patience of a hungry mosquito. But those things empathy, kindness, tolerance they’re essential in any human connection.

At some point, we paused to catch our breath. We spotted a mango tree with ripe fruits just showing off. Trust my guys they skillfully shot them down, and Elder got the first bite. Shortly after, Francis rejoined us. It took us an hour and fifteen minutes to reach the summit.

Adventure Lord, ever the explorer, had taken a different route and arrived at the summit at the same time as us guy is basically Google Maps in human form. At the top, the akara and bread came out again, and we all feasted while soaking in the view. Conversations flowed, and we even shared exciting ideas that might just become something big soon. Stay tuned!

Now, what makes trail-setting different from the usual Saturday hikes is that we deliberately choose routes that are inclusive easy enough for everyone, yet fun and fulfilling. This weekend’s hike will be another light one, perfect for bonding. So bring a friend, a sibling, or even your in-law that talks too much nature will humble all of us.

After about 20 minutes of rest, laughs, and planning future adventures, it was time to descend. For the first time in a long while, we all decided to head down together. Usually, someone dashes off early to deal with life, but this time, unity was the vibe.

We took a different route down and stumbled upon a hidden treasure a beautiful waterfall! The sound of the water, the mist on our faces, the peace in the air it was magical. A few people were already there exploring the scene. We also passed by some farmers tending their fields, planting vegetables and tubers. It was such a grounding moment. I silently prayed for their crops to flourish, for their labor to be rewarded with abundant harvests and prosperity. There’s something humbling about witnessing people who literally work the land it's a reminder of how connected we all are to nature’s cycles.

As we journeyed back to the base of the mountain, tired but fulfilled, I reflected on everything: the climb, the connections, the mangoes, the laughter, and the waterfall surprise. Trail-setting isn’t just exercise it’s soul work. And I’m grateful.

I’m grateful for my legs for carrying me to and from the summit. 

I’m grateful for my mind for staying sound, for syncing with my body to keep me strong and healthy.

 I’m grateful for my inner strength that push that keeps me moving even when life throws curveballs.

 I’m grateful for the mountain for welcoming us with peace, for giving us a space to breathe and just be.

So, to you reading this: come hike with us next time. You just might find what your soul didn’t know it needed.

See you on the trail 👣😉

Peace.