%20(5).jpg)
Reflections from the Trail: Midlife, Mindfulness, and Momentum
- Dr Linnette M. Johnson
- Jun 29
- 2 min read
After a weekend of hiking and exploring—starting in Harper’s Ferry and heading into the mountains of West Virginia—I came back with more than sore legs and great photos (not as many as I should have gotten). I came back with perspective.
It’s been years since I hiked the Jefferson Rock Outlook trail. I hadn’t completed it since my 20s. This time around, the pace was slower, the gear more intentional, and the awareness of my body’s needs sharper than ever. What used to be a fast climb turned into a deliberate journey—and I’m grateful for every step.
Slowing Down and Listening In
The trail reminded me of how much clarity can come from simply putting one foot in front of the other. It also reminded me of the importance of proper support—both the hiking-boot kind and the kind that comes from taking care of ourselves over time.
There’s something sincerely humbling (and empowering) about moving through nature with a body that has seen seasons. There are pros and cons to how my body responds now, but the lesson remains the same: if I want to continue doing the things I love at every stage of life, I must care for this body as if it matters—because it does.
And yes—the views were stunning. My kiddo already asked when we’re going back. But as with most things in life, the more profound insights came not at the summit, but during the climb.
The Challenge of Shutting Off
As I reflect on where I'm in life and work, one thing has become especially clear: I’m not very good at turning things off. Even when I step away physically, my mind often stays stuck in “go” mode. The emails, the ideas, the deadlines—they don’t just disappear when the out-of-office message is on.
Over the past year, I’ve been balancing a lot: multiple professional roles, family life, and meaningful projects. Like many of you, I’ve kept things moving. But somewhere in that process, consistent movement, restorative sleep, and time to just be quietly fell off the priority list.
A New Intention
That’s shifting.
I’m not waiting for a health scare, a breaking point, or a New Year’s resolution. I’m resetting now, with intention. I want this next chapter of life to be filled with presence, strength, and care, not just hustle and checklists.
So here’s what I’m committing to:
To make time—not just manage it.
To protect space for recovery—not just productivity.
To support the graceful, evolving journey of aging with strength, compassion, and care.
Because there’s still more hiking to do—both literally and metaphorically, and I want to meet those moments with energy, peace, and the right mindset.
Moving Forward with Grace
The trail gave me time to reflect, but it also gave me momentum. I’m entering this next phase of life with more precise boundaries, deeper rest, and greater intention.
Here’s to the year ahead—more aligned, more energized, and more grounded in what truly matters.
Have you had a moment recently where you realized you needed to shift how you care for yourself? I’d love to hear how you’re honoring your journey—whether it’s through movement, mindfulness, or just making space to breathe.
