8 Lessons I learnt while cycling in Himalaya’s
Cycling in Himalaya’s has taught me some of the most important lessons of life and it also reminded me of many forgotten words of wisdom.
It is all about taking one step at a time: In any extreme adventure or moments of life, if you can complete Day 1, you can do it on Day 2 too and then even on Day 3 and Day 4 and so on. One step at a time, you will realise it was never as daunting as you had thought.
Respect Nature and nature will keep you safe. In high altitudes, where air is thin, oxygen is less, winds are strong, temperature is cold and climbs never ends, one act of disrespect towards nature can cause you your life. One should not get excited by the first touch of snow, or first snowfall, never consider AMS as a joke, never get high on weed or alcohol, never sleep in passes, keep your self covered and many more things. Trust me, if you respect Nature, you will end up having time of your life.
It is all about mind & heart: People ask me how to prepare to ride from Manali to Leh. And I always say that no amount of physical training is good enough for the ride. It is your mind and heart that will be the first to give up. Stay strong in your head and heart, you will never be exhausted.
It was never a race: Ride as much as you can. Never over push yourself. It isn’t a race, it’s your life. Make the most of it. Stop at the waterfalls, for the views of mighty Himalayas and take dip in lakes. Sip Chai at Dhaba or make endless conversations with locals. Just don’t rush. Take a day or two extra if you feel like.
Be generous to locals. They are bunch of amazing happy souls. They are welcoming, fully if happy vibes, loves conversing, and will give their soul out to you. Please respect them. Keep their neighbourhood clean.
It is small things in life that matters the most. When you don’t have most luxuries of life, you realise you are happier and more Content with basics in life. Real life conversations are better than phone calls and Facebook. Simple.
Live in moment. Cherish it as you don’t know what is ahead of you and what left behind is already your past. The mighty mountains keeps reminding you, how tiny we are.
There is a thin line between giving up and taking a step forward. And magic only happens when you push yourself a bit, stay strong and take a step forward. Giving up is always an easy option available. But climb the passes, beat the headwinds or cold around. You will experience immense joy and satisfaction. A sense of being at peace prevail.
