Daring to be Heathy!

"At the trailhead of Dog Mountain in the Columbia River Gorge."  ~ photo by Lee G Young  © 2014

It doesn’t take much effort for me to do the things that jeopardize my health. Eating sugary foods is always a temptation, even though it aggravates my allergies, and staying up late and not getting enough quality rest seems to come naturally for me, in spite of the resulting lack of energy. But the most noticeable challenge to my health is more to my emotional state, rather than my physical. When I’m not out walking on a regular basis, and especially when I’m not hiking in nature, I tend to lapse into depressed feelings, which, in turn, invite negative self talk and judgement. With the influence of the new “normal” lifestyle of being continually “plugged into” some kind of electronics, and usually assuming a sedentary position in front of a some sort of screen, I need to always be vigilant in my personal care - especially with the exercise part!

"A view of the gorge from the trail going upward."  ~ photo by Carol E Fairbanks  © 2014

Reading what experts say about exercise, I found that where you exercise is as important as the exercise itself. Dr. Michael Nirenberg, who has written articles in the American Wanderer, compares the infinite benefits of walking outdoors to the practice of walking indoors on a treadmill. He says, that there is “no substitute for the wonder and health benefits of actually experiencing the grandeur of our natural environment while walking.” Many scientists argue that, in addition to the physical health benefits, like promoting longer and deeper refreshing sleep, exercising in fresh air is found to improve one’s mood, which usually results in a more positive outlook on life.

"Heart shapes created by sunlight through the trees."  ~ photo by Carol E Fairbanks  © 2014

Even though recent scientific studies have supported the benefits of walking outdoors, people have known this to be true for a very long time. For centuries, the Japanese have used the term “shinrin-yoku”, which means “forest bathing”. Rather than involving a soak in a tub among the trees, this word refers to spending time in the woods and feeling the relaxing and healing  influence of nature, both in your body and in your mind. This ancient wisdom is now supported by scientists, as they have discovered that, when outdoors in a forest or by a lake, you breathe in active substances released by plants called phytoncides. Plants release phytoncides to protect themselves against insects and from rotting, but you benefit, as they lower blood pressure, reduce stress and help to boost the immune system. 

"Signs to the summit."  ~ photo by Carol E Fairbanks  © 2014

Okay, hiking in the woods is great for us…. but what about a difficult hike like, Dog Mountain in the Columbia Gorge area? Is there any advantage to challenging yourself that much? I asked myself that question, as I was planning to tackle that steep and rapidly ascending trail on the Washington side of the Columbia River. It turns out that, if you are physically able, there is a very good reason! In the most recent issue of Sierra Magazine, a publication of the Sierra Club, I read an interesting article entitled, “The Science of Awe.” It tells how scientists, in a study, are “charting what happens when nature blows your mind.” We have seen what happens when someone, like John Muir, gets inspired by his experience in nature. After his life-altering treks in the Sierra Mountains, Muir authored poetic-like writings that inspired a major conservation movement. 

"Determined to make it!"  ~ photo by Lee G Young  © 2014

In wanting to explore how the science of nature elicits a response of awe and inspiration, University of California psychologist, Dacher Keltner, is now conducting a study to measure the long term physical benefits of awe and, for the first time, is moving the laboratory out into the natural world. He says, “We want to engage with people and observe them when they’re really out there on the river or lying under the stars.” Keltner has observed that when people are asked to recall awe-inspiring experiences, they often cite nature. He says, “Fleeting and rare, experiences of awe can change the course of a life in permanent ways.”  If feeling awe is a stimulus that can force people to revise their mental frames of reference, then Dog Mountain, with its breathtaking views of the Columbia River, as it winds its way through that scenic gorge, has the potential to turn around any negative thinking in me!

"A scene of the gorge from the lower viewpoint of Dog Mountain."  ~  photo by Carol E Fairbanks  © 2014

So with the possible benefits of of inspiring awe, I put on my hiking boots, slipped on my daypack filled with goodies and extra water, and grabbed my hiking stick as I headed off to make my ascent of Dog Mountain. Climbing the trail, I had to stop often to catch my breath, as I made my way up the steep, rocky inclines; however, the real challenge I faced was that inner voice that broadcasted my self doubt and fear. “Turn back, you crazy lady!” it shouted at me. “You could slip and fall and kill yourself! Turn back now!” Refusing to be defeated by my fear, I kept reminding myself of those jaw-dropping photos I could take when I arrived at the viewpoints.  (My ego can sometimes override my fear.)

With determination and refusing to to look over and down at the vast expanse between the high cliff walls of the gorge, I centered my focus on the narrow rocky trail, as it relentlessly meandered upward. Like a mantra, I told myself over and over that I was safe and secure and had all the ability I needed to successfully make it to the top. I also recalled a walking idol of mine, Hulda Crooks, who in her 90’s, hiked up Pike’s Peak numerous times. I remembered that she was convinced that hiking mountains was necessary for personal growth.  She said, “That’s where you build character…. on a mountaintop!” 

"A challenging trail led up to this upper viewpoint."  ~ photo by Carol E Fairbanks  © 2014

And indeed, as I arrived at the upper viewpoint of Dog Mountain, shaking a bit from my struggle with fear, I felt empowered as I turned toward the panoramic view of the gorge. Amazed that I made it that far, I felt perhaps I had more grit and skill than I had previously thought. In scanning the awesome view that I had avoided on that narrow upward-climbing trail, all I could think of now, as I gazed at this scenic wonder, was, “Wow!” The awe I felt, as I marveled at the majestic view of the gorge, dissipated my fear - almost immediately. All struggle of the difficult ascent was gone, and in its place was a feeling of reverence -  what someone might feel upon entering a grand cathedral. I seemed to connect with a wonderfully expanded awareness that had replaced my small limiting self perceptions. Maybe, that was the “mountaintop experience” that Hulda was referring to! I wasn’t a fearful, shaky “crazy lady” any more. On the mountaintop of Dog Mountain, I was a competent, capable, and courageous woman!

"Wind Mountain is seen from the upper trail."  ~ photo by Carol E Fairbanks  © 2014

History tells us how the Chinook, as well as many other native tribes, used a “mountain experience” in their rites of passage for youth who were coming-of-age. The young boy, in looking for his inner resources that could “carry” him to manhood, would climb alone up a mountain, like Dog, or nearby Wind Mountain, relying only on himself.The wise elders of the tribe knew that the inexperienced boy would move through feelings in his climb upward, probably similar to those I felt.They foresaw that when he reached the summit and looked out at the magnificence of creation, a wiser and more knowing part of himself would awaken. And the chances of him living out his life’s purpose would be much greater due to that “mountaintop experience”. Perhaps that awe and reverence that he would feel when connecting to the sublime in nature, might even be extended to include himself, as well as, others.

""Feeling 'on top of it' on Dog Mountain!"  ~ photo by Lee G Young  © 2014

I believe, as the psychologist Keltner does, that an experience of awe, like the stunning vista from the top of Dog Mountain, can become the foundation for a healthier body and a happier mind. It’s the treasure you find on a mountaintop that reveals the true “mountaintop experience” you seek, and it's really within you. That “mountaintop experience”, which can manifest in many different ways, is unique for each of us….. it’s whatever is in your life that challenges you to see beyond your fear to a vision of who you truly are. Yes, Dog Mountain did it for me!
                                          by Carol E. Fairbanks, W. W. W.  © 2014

The Presence of the Past

"Meeting the Bigfoot family at the Discovery Park in North Bonneville, Washington."  photo by Lee G Young  © 2014

When thinking of the past, we usually consider it to be finished and over with. We believe it no longer exists and cannot be seen in today’s world. But even though the past is out of sight, the events leading up to the present are still very much a part of today, continuing to affect our attitudes and choices. The past is present, yet elusive…kind of like Bigfoot, that is rumored to have lurked for many years in forests of the Pacific Northwest. Reports of sightings of these ape-like creatures, also known as Sasquatch (meaning “wild man in the woods”), have been documented in myths by Indians, long before early explorers made their way out west. Explorers of the northwest in the 1800’s reported many sightings of this creature, while others claimed to have only discovered their huge footprints in the woods. And today, the State of Washington, where I did my hike along the Columbia River, is considered a “hot spot” for Bigfoot activity. Even though most people have not seen an actual Bigfoot, the lore and legend of Sasquatch still affects all of us to some degree. So many sightings have been reported in Skamania County’s forested hills that in 1969 the County Board of Commissioners passed an ordinance against the slaying of a Bigfoot. Today, after some revision, that county ordinance states that killing a Bigfoot is punishable by up to one year in the county jail and/or $1000 fine.

"From the trail on Strawberry Island, beautiful cliffs of Columbia Gorge can be seen."  photo by Carol E Fairbanks © 2014

Like Bigfoot, past historic events, although out of sight, still touch us today in the ways we think, act and talk. So, whether it’s a Bigfoot sighting or a settlement by early explorers, those historic accounts add to the wonderful adventure and mystique of hiking in the Northwest. In this area of quiet and sparsely inhabited land, along a scenic stretch of the Columbia River, many dramatic events have occurred, shaping the settlement and development of the entire Pacific Northwest. Away from the busy urban area, where I live, my walk from North Bonneville Discovery Park through Strawberry Island and Fort Cascades National Historic Site gave me a glimpse of the struggles and drama of the people who explored and made this land their home. 

"A historic photo of the military Block House, built for protection, taken from a trail sign at Fort Cascade National Historic Site." 

Stories of Indians, explorers, fur traders, soldiers, settlers, railroad workers and fisherman all make up the rich cultural heritage of this area of Columbia Gorge. The trails along the bank of the Columbia River and through the woods of the Ft. Cascades Site are peaceful and quiet, but the informative signs and historic markers along the way were to me a frequent reminder of the important activity that happened there in the past. Lessons from impressive accomplishments, like the Cascade Portage Railroad, to the questionable practices, like the Warren Fishwheel, continue to teach us as we work today to adapt and prosper in our own communities. The one and one half mile interpretive trail through the Ft. Cascades National Historic Site is a stark reminder of the fragility of the structures and businesses we build, while never envisioning a day when they might cease to exist.  

"The site today where the Block House used to be is a field with a view of the Bonneville Dam." ~ photo by Carol E Fairbanks  © 2014

After the army abandoned Ft. Cascades in 1861 at the start of the Civil War, civilians began moving into the vacated buildings, using them as residences and other community buildings. So, as Ft. Cascades faded from history, the town of Cascades began to grow and flourish. However, in 1894 the greatest recorded flood on the Columbia River ended that town, as it destroyed and swept away every remaining building. And the town of Cascades was never rebuilt. 

"A historc photo of the Cascade Portage Railroad taken from a trail sign at Fort Cascades National Historic Site." 

After many years of operating successfully and covering a distance of 6 miles from Hamilton Island to Stevenson in Washington, the Cascade Portage Railroad finally stopped their runs along the Columbia River. The building of the Transcontinental Railroad in 1883, along with the Great Flood of 1894 and the 1896 opening of the Cascades Canal and Locks, created setbacks for the portage railway, and finally, in 1907, the Cascade Portage Railroad was rendered obsolete and quit running altogether.

"The site of Cascade Portage Railroad as seen today at the Ft. Cascades Site." ~ photo by Carol E Fairbanks  © 2014

Even though structures and whole communities of the past fade away, the people of long ago and their achievements continue to “speak” to us yet today. With the repeated floods of the Columbia River destroying nearly all traces of early native people, only a petroglyph still remains here as a reminder of those prehistoric inhabitants, who first made this area their home. While the original petroglyph is now in front of Skamania County Courthouse Annex, a replica of this rock carving can be seen along the interpretive walking trail through the Fort Cascades National Historic Site. Although the meaning of the carving is unknown, it still reminds us of the Cascade Indians that once lived in a village there. Those early native inhabitants were noted in the journal of explorers, Lewis and Clark, who passed through this area in search of a water route to the Pacific in November of 1805 and again returned in April of 1806. 

"On the Ft. Cascades trail, the replica of a stone age petroglyph that was discovered here can be seen".
~ photo by Carol E Fairbanks  © 2014

"A close up view of the petroglyph seems to have "eyes" from the past looking at you."
~ photo by Carol E Fairbanks

Like Lewis and Clark, I also saw the gorgeous river views and high rocky cliffs of the gorge, as I hiked the 4 mile wildlife walk on Strawberry Island. Lewis and Clark, while on the Corps of Discovery expedition, discovered Strawberry Island, naming it for its profusion of strawberry vines. In hiking past grassy fields and rolling hills, at this Lewis and Clark Heritage Site, I saw at a distance, Beacon Rock, an 848 rock monolith, that is actually a core of an extinct volcano. Originally named by Lewis and Clark on their way to the Pacific Ocean in 1805, Clark noted in his journal that Beacon Rock was “a remarkable and big detached rock”…. and stated that it “stands as a beacon on the land.”

"Beacon Rock, first described and named by explorers, Lewis and Clark, is seen at a distance on the trail."  ~ photo by Carol E Fairbanks  © 2014

Walking this scenic path was truly an interesting and informative walk through history. As I followed the historic events of the past on this trail, I realized how the lives of those, who have passed through here before us, affect and influence the present. From their rich experience, they have left a legacy of knowledge and relationship to the land that influence us to the present day. Their vivid memory inspires us to stay committed to our ideals, in spite of any struggles we may encounter. They teach us about the flow of life experience, that continues regardless of any insurmountable obstacles that may happen. Today, we can see how everyone’s achievements in the past weave together a tapestry of human endurance and ingenuity. And this tapestry of remarkable experience, created by those courageous explorers, settlers and native indigenous people of the past, provides us with a foundation upon which we can “walk” into the future. 

"Looking westward on the trail by the Columbia River... a river that Lewis and Clark once boated down."  ~ photo by Carol E Fairbanks  © 2014

The Native American saying, “Every step you take is supported by 1000 ancestors” came alive, as I walked along those trails by the Columbia River. The wisdom those people of the past have contributed to the present by their courage and determination now guides us through the ideals we are striving to manifest today. Their legacy has become our treasure, as we keep striving toward a better existence for all. So, just because we can’t see a person or structure any longer, doesn’t mean it’s presence is not here. The essence of the words and deeds of all beings are always available to us, helping us learn and grow… and maybe that even includes the “wild man of the woods”!

"Bigfoot sculpture at Discovery Park in North Bonneville, WA." ~ photo by Carol E Fairbanks  © 2014

                                                             by Carol E Fairbanks, W.W.W.    © 2014