How long has the outdoors been a part of your life?
In the last 8-9 years after I got divorced and have had lots of free time on my hands and a realization that I didn’t know Scotland as well as I should at my age!
What’s been your favourite trip or adventure?
Spending 4 days in Arisaig on the West Coast in my campervan after lockdown lifted for the 1st time, paddling on my own up and down the coast, meeting new people, embracing van life, watching sunsets, swimming……bliss
How do you make find a balance between being active and life’s other responsibilities i.e. work and family?
I have every 2nd weekend child free, so I try to fill that time doing something outdoors with friends, biking, hiking, paddling however it’s hard to get friends to travel further afield though as everyone has similar commitments and diaries are busy.
Is there anyone who inspired your love of the outdoors?
A friend got me up my first mountain 8yrs ago, I was definitely not “hill fit” but he told me I could do anything I wanted to do, that’s where my inspiration came from.
Do you find that being outside has a positive impact on your wellbeing and mental health?
100%! it’s instantly calming when you get to your happy place, it gives you head space and generally a quieter pace of life even for a few hours to reset.
What is it about paddleboarding specifically that you love?
Paddleboarding - Feeling of achievement (not falling in), confidence boost, exploring places on the water you wouldn’t usually be able to see from land
When did you discover FINDRA?
A few years ago my best friend bought me a cowl jumper for Christmas, since then I have followed you on social media.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Life’s too short, don’t wait until yours becomes easy to start enjoying yourself.
On writing this blog, what do you feel is the key motivational or inspirational message you would like to highlight to our followers that would inspire them to get outdoors more?
Don’t be afraid to try anything, be bold, find your tribe of people that will inspire you to do more and enjoy the country that you live in.
Favourite Place?
La Plagne in the French Alps, it’s my happy place, it’s like going home each time I visit, makes me feel very small in that vast mountain range but also reminds me how much I’ve learned all the years I’ve been going there.
Favourite Quote?
Favourite Song?
Darius Rucker - Wagon Wheel
This is a get up and dance/sing feel good song that always brings a smile to my face, it’s our annual ski trip song and we try and listen to it every day!
