Chapter 1: Embracing Change Through Walking

This past April, I made a pivotal decision to join my local walking group, an experience that has profoundly impacted my life. Allow me to share my journey.

In July 2023, I faced the heartbreaking loss of my mother, who succumbed to dementia while in care. Despite her doctor's repeated warnings over the years that her time was limited, she continued to surprise us until the very end. Just a week after my mother’s funeral in August 2023, tragedy struck again when my sister unexpectedly passed away. The shock was overwhelming; I remember collapsing to the floor in disbelief when I received the news from my nephew.

From the time of my sister's funeral until I joined the walking group in April, I was merely going through the motions of daily life. Some days, I managed to complete my work and errands, but on others, I found myself in tears, often retreating to bed. There were moments when I sat at my desk, unable to concentrate, tears streaming down my face. My passion for work and hobbies disappeared, and I had to force myself to rise each morning, feeling detached from everything around me.

All of that changed when I discovered the walking group in April. Interestingly, one of the group's administrators was a close friend of my mother's. I like to think that my mother, in some spiritual way, guided me to this group to help me navigate my grief. The group is dedicated to mental health and aims to unite local individuals who may feel lonely, isolated, or are battling depression and anxiety. It welcomes people of all ages, races, backgrounds, and abilities, creating a judgment-free environment. Since its inception in March, the group has expanded to over 2,000 members, ranging from ages 18 to 90, offering a lifeline to many, including myself.

After losing both my mother and sister, it felt as though my family had vanished entirely; my father had passed away in 2007, leaving me feeling increasingly alone. While I am fortunate to have cousins who I cherish, they live far away, and my aunt and uncle are three hours up the motorway. I also have wonderful friends, but despite our regular gatherings, their busy lives often leave me feeling isolated.

The walking group has become my "tribe." While some might find that term cheesy, it rings true. We are a diverse group of strangers who meet one or two days a week, united by the common goal of supporting each other’s mental health. This sense of belonging has been essential for my well-being. The members are genuinely remarkable and friendly, providing a rich tapestry of stories and experiences that have brightened my days.

Having a close-knit community is crucial for all of us. Whether through a social club, a large family, or a circle of lifelong friends, it's vital to feel known, supported, and loved. Such connections provide a sense of identity and enrich our lives. For example, one friend found her community through regular church attendance, while another thrives in a large, interconnected family that spends weekends and holidays together.

As Mitch Albom said, "The way you get meaning into your life is to devote yourself to loving others, devote yourself to your community around you, and devote yourself to creating something that gives you purpose and meaning."

The concept of a tribe can refer to any group sharing common interests or purposes, from school friends to social media groups. These tribes foster connections and shared beliefs, enhancing our lives in myriad ways.

For me, this walking group has evolved into a crucial support network, allowing us to share our traumas and experiences without fear of judgment.

I would love to hear about your experiences. Have you discovered your own "tribe"? Where do you feel welcomed and supported, and how did you find it? If you haven't yet found your community, consider starting one in your local area to bring people together.

Let’s connect in the comments below!

Much love x

This first video discusses the incredible health benefits of walking daily, emphasizing how it contributes to heart health and longevity.

The second video features a conversation with Mary-Frances O'Connor about the grieving process, offering insights into how our brains cope with loss.