Dr. Ali Walked Across Spain
and Came Back with StoriesMost of us know Dr. Ali as the very kind, brilliant PT who brings heart and healing to the clinic every day. But this summer, she traded in her therapy table and resistance bands for a backpack and hiking shoes and set off on a journey most only dream about: Walking the Camino de Santiago, a historic pilgrimage trail across Spain.
Why Spain? Why the Camino?
The Camino de Santiago is a spiritual pilgrimage consisting of multiple different paths through Spain that all converge upon the St. James Cathedral in Santiago, Spain.
Dr. Ali explained, “I heard about it back in 2020 and was inspired to walk it, but plans were delayed due to covid restrictions and other personal obligations. When I approached a friend about it, she became so enthusiastic, we committed to doing it finally.”
They chose the Camino Francés, the classic route starting across the border in France, winding through tiny villages, hills, and cities before ending in Santiago. They gave themselves 40 days but ended up finishing in 33, with just a few bus rides here and there.
The Heart of the Journey
This wasn’t just a physical trek. It was about connection and meaning.
“Highlights were the experience of meeting strangers from around the world who all felt like friends because we were all on the same journey,” Dr. Ali said.
Along the way, Dr. Ali fell in love with the towns including St. Jean Pied de Port in France, Castrojeriz, and especially Molinaseca. And like any great adventure story, there’s a standout day:
“My favorite day of hiking was hiking up over the mountain and down steep descents in windy, stormy weather with our two friends from Australia to arrive in Molinaseca.”
She also added, “León is a beautiful, fun city with an impressive cathedral and very tourist-friendly!”
But wait… what’s a journey without great eats? In the Basque region, known for its cuisine, Dr. Ali found a favorite snack:
“A typical Spanish half bread roll with sliced tomatoes, a round of delicious mild white cheese, and caramelized onions on top — yummy!”
Watch Their Vlog
A Plot Twist
Just when she thought the journey was over, life threw in a twist. Dr. Ali had to spend 4 days in the hospital, right after completing the Camino.
Thankfully, she’s okay! But it added a real-world lesson:
“Spain is a tourist-friendly country mostly because of the many Camino trails coursing through it. They have free health care in their public hospitals and good treatment, which I learned when I had to be hospitalized for 4 days the day after completing my Camino. (Not free for me, but WAY cheaper than if I had been in the US). What I learned about myself is that my adrenal function is not up to snuff for such a challenge at this time!”
The Ultimate Takeaway
Despite the challenges and unexpected detours, Dr. Ali calls it “the adventure of a lifetime.” She wholeheartedly recommends it for anyone physically ready for the journey, noting that many older pilgrims tackle the trail, and that accommodations and food are refreshingly affordable.
Dr. Ali, You Inspire Us
We’re so proud of you. What an incredible, brave, soul-filling journey. Thanks for inspiring us to slow down, stretch our limits, and maybe dream a little bigger.
So if you’ve ever wondered whether you should take that leap and go on your own adventure… maybe this is the sign 👣✨
When you’re ready to take that next step, we’d love to support you. Reach out to us today and let’s talk about how we can walk with you toward a healthier, stronger tomorrow.