By Nadely Requena, VRG Intern

Hi there! My name is Nadely (pronounced like Natalie) and recently, I decided to embark on an adventure! Lately, everything seems to overwhelm me. From little snippets of conversations with others, I’ve realized that I’m not the only one who’s going through it. I find myself procrastinating way too much and the work just never seems to end.

In moments like these, it’s vital that we listen to our bodies. There are internal alarm systems going off and we need to respond. I’ve always found that going on walks provides me with clarity and an overall sense of peacefulness, especially when I go by myself.

In light of how I’ve been feeling, I thought a nice hike and vegan picnic would be a good way to alleviate my anxious thoughts. However, how fun would it be if I took you, a fellow reader, along for the ride? Or at least through some tips and tricks I’ve learned from my numerous hiking trips?

Are you ready? Okay, let’s begin.

First off, you need to make your lunch! I’ve always found it very helpful to prepare meals that are easy to eat and that won’t get your hands dirty. Sandwiches are usually my go-to just because they’re so simple, but super customizable and delicious with every bite.

Vegan Picnic Meal:

• Main: sandwich with 2 toasted bread slices along with lettuce, avocado, and vegan cheese
• Side: leftover tater tots mixed with spring mix (added sriracha for a little spice)
  • *Tip: frozen tater tots can be cooked in the microwave in just 2-3 minutes!
• Snack: roasted peanuts

Now, when it comes to preparing your backpack, you want to make sure your lunch is in a tight, fully sealed container. We don’t want anything to spill — no mini accidents! I also make sure to bring a couple napkins just in case. Additionally, I bring a towel to sit on, whatever book I’m reading at the moment, and my journal to make sure I document my beautiful surroundings.

More Tips & Tricks:

• Bring at least 2 liters of water — I always have my neon lime green Hydro Flask with me wherever I go, but whenever I go on longer walks, I like to prepare by bringing my extra Nalgene bottle (which is also lime green in case you were wondering). Not only are you helping the environment by not using plastic, you are also preparing your future self to not be dehydrated!
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes — I mean it! There is nothing more horrible than wearing clothing pieces that don’t suit the activity you’re doing. It’s so uncomfortable! On my hiking days, I love wearing my pair of biker shorts, either a baggy t-shirt or a tank top, and some tennis shoes or hiking boots.
• Prepare for the heat by bringing a bandanna — Now, I don’t know what part of the world you’re reading this from, but where I’m from (Texas), the heat loves being the villain in everybody’s day. Bringing a bandanna or some type of cool and washable fabric can come in handy to wipe off sweat.
• Have long hair? Put it up! Your future self will thank you, I promise!

And that’s it from me! Preparing for a hiking trip is pretty easy and once you get into the flow, you can start to modify certain things to best suit your needs.

This weekend, I walked 13.5 miles through luscious greenery at the Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail in Austin, Texas. As I contemplated quietly, a running creek was my companion and I occasionally smiled and greeted fellow hikers who I hope experienced the same amount of contentment as myself.

A gentle reminder: we are only human. Our emotions fluctuate, life happens, and there’s nothing wrong with feeling overwhelmed or out of it at times.

With the constant breaking news, the endless notifications on every device, and the endless stream of work, there needs to be a time to re-energize yourself. Self-care care is a form of self-love. It’s okay to not be okay.

Here’s some picnic and hiking recipes:
https://www.vrg.org/blog/2015/07/17/everything-you-ever-needed-or-wanted-to-know-about-picnics-vegan-style/
https://www.vrg.org/blog/2020/05/14/warmer-weather-is-here-enjoy-some-picnic-recipe-ideas/
https://www.vrg.org/journal/vj2002issue2/2002_issue2_picnic.php
https://www.vrg.org/journal/vj2018issue3/2018_issue3_summer_picnic.php
https://www.vrg.org/blog/2017/05/26/portable-picnic-feasts-to-enjoy-memorial-day-weekend/
https://www.vrg.org/blog/2016/07/15/vegan-summertime-picnic/
https://www.vrg.org/blog/2022/05/19/tips-for-vegan-hiking-2/
https://www.vrg.org/journal/vj2013issue2/2013_issue2_vegan_backpacking.php