The true trailwalking spirit

The world has almost been completely shut down by a global pandemic. Infectious disease experts have warned that the coronavirus will not end soon. So, how can we equip ourselves to cope with the threat and stay healthy? Here, Oxfam Trailwalker veteran Samantha Chan shares her tips of building and keeping a healthy lifestyle. 

Samantha has taken part in the Oxfam Trailwalker for many years. She is a seasoned participant who has completed the entire route within 18 hours. Although training takes up much of her time, she believes exercise is essential. Smiling, Samantha said, ‘Exercise is a crucial part of my life. Running and taking part in the Oxfam Trailwalker are my lifelong commitments. I found that exercising is good for my body and mind. I have become more positive, focused and determined, and I’ve been able to overcome obstacles and challenges in my life. I really think everybody should exercise no matter what.’

In recent months, people around the globe have been doing everything they can to prevent the spread of and fight the coronavirus. In Hong Kong, many people are staying at home while many others have been seeking refuge in the countryside on weekends. Samantha agreed, saying that hiking responsibly and away from the crowds could help boost our health and immune system: ‘The countryside in Hong Kong is beautiful and there’s lots of fresh air. Walking in the countryside and getting in touch with nature can help you relax and make you happier, and can strengthen your heart and lungs. I would suggest that you go with two or three friends, but not in a big group. Remember not to leave any trash on the trails; don’t pick or damage any plant or tree, whether living or dead, and bring your own water. During this critical moment, when you’re around people or when taking public transport back to the city, do put on your mask. Of course, if the situation is alarming, stay home – this is the best way to protect yourself and others.’

Veteran Oxfam trailwalker Samantha Chan hopes to promote awareness of environmental protection and healthy diet.

‘No matter if meeting the difficulties that arise along the 100 km trail or fending off life obstacles, a positive frame of mind is very import.’ Samantha said. (Photo: MIU MIU MOU)

Infinity Walker
Samantha recommends Oxfam’s hiking/running mobile app, Infinity Walker, to those who are interested in exercising: ‘By completing various missions and reaching certain milestones, you can earn points and badges. With the points you earn, you can redeem rewards, enjoy exclusive offers or even donate to Oxfam Hong Kong to help people in need. This app is better when you use it with friends!’ 

But how can you exercise when you need to stay at home during this pandemic? Samantha recommends a few simple exercises which are sure to boost your health: ‘Yoga can relax and energise you. It helps you stay flexible and strong without putting added stress on your joints. Core exercises such as sit-ups and planks, and lower body strength training exercises like squats can strengthen your muscles and burn fat. Skipping rope can strengthen your heart and lungs too.’

The true trailwalking spirit
The true trailwalking spirit is the determination to face the daunting 100 km trail, the perseverance to overcome its peaks and valleys, and knowing that you as a walker never walk alone. Through teamwork and mutual support, no challenge is too big to overcome for these teams of four. A firm believer in this spirit, Samantha believes the same goes for fighting the pandemic – as long as we stand together and support each other, we will make it through with perseverance. ‘Most importantly,’ she added, ‘we need to stay positive because stress and anxiety are harmful to our physical and mental health.’

The outbreak of the coronavirus has given us the opportunity to reflect on what is most important in our lives, and how we can live a meaningful life. Thinking beyond the current crisis, Samantha said, ‘We also need to work together to address climate change. I believe that each one of us can make a difference. From today onwards, you can help make the world a better place by living a simple life, reducing consumption, eating healthy. I love eating apple, and I use organic honey as substitute of refined white sugar. Drinking organic honey with warm water is delicious. It is rich in vitamins and can help strengthen the body's immunity. I also support fair trade and I think we can be a changemaker by using our consumer power. Buy fair to help poor people and protect our planet.’

This article was originally published on 'Oxfam Express May 2020'