We're Doing It – Annapurna & Everest, Here We Come!

It’s happening. We booked the tickets.

Nepal, here we come!

This trip has been sitting on my bucket list for ages, and now it’s finally real.

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) and Everest Base Camp (EBC) – two epic hikes, 20 days, lots of steps, thin air, and (hopefully) incredible memories.

I’m buzzing with excitement. Also, slightly terrified. But isn’t that the point?

They say you should do something that scares you at least once a year.

Well, this one is mine.

Not only is it my first time in Nepal, but it’s also my first expedition as a breathwork facilitator. No pressure, right?

Training Mode: Activated

With just a month to go, training is in full swing.

No, I’m not climbing Banu stairs with a backpack full of rocks (yet), but I am making sure my lungs, legs, and mind are ready for what’s ahead.

Here’s what my current training looks like:

• Assault bike every day – because who doesn’t love gasping for air before breakfast?

  
  

• Gym twice a week – mostly to remind my legs that they have a job to do.

  
  

• Freediving pool training twice a week – because if I can hold my breath underwater for ages, surely I can handle thin mountain air, right?

• Breathing exercises & walks – training my lungs, calming my nervous system, and strengthening my endurance.

  
  

• Yoga – because flexibility and balance are key, especially when navigating rocky trails.

First Time in Nepal – What’s the Vibe?

I have no idea what to expect. Mountains, obviously. Some altitude-induced existential crises? Maybe.

But mostly, I expect beauty, adventure, and a serious reality check on how much we take oxygen for granted.

I’m ready to soak in the culture, the landscapes, and probably way too much dal bhat.

From the Alps to the Himalayas

I might live at sea level now, but the mountains have always been a part of me. I was born at the feet of the Piedmont Alps, spent my life trekking and skiing until my 30s, always finding my way to high altitudes.

Back then, altitude sickness was never a problem—but who knows now?

That fitness, that adaptation? We’ll find out soon enough!

Breathwork in the Mountains – Let’s Go

This trip is more than just a physical challenge. It’s about testing my breath, my body, and my ability to guide breathwork in one of the most breathtaking (literally) environments on Earth.

And here’s the thing – breathwork absolutely helps with altitude.

It strengthens lung capacity, improves oxygen efficiency, and keeps the nervous system calm under stress—also for those thrilling suspended bridges that we’ll have to cross. 😳

So yes, it will make the climbs easier.

And I can’t wait to share this experience and these techniques with others along the way.

The Magic of Teahouse Trekking

One of the things I’m most excited about?

The teahouses!

Forget roughing it in tents—Nepal’s trekking routes are dotted with cozy little teahouses where you can rest, refuel, and warm up with a hot cup of chai or butter tea.

These charming mountain lodges offer simple but hearty meals (think dal bhat, momos, and warm stews) and a welcoming atmosphere that makes the journey even more special.

As someone who loves tea, food, and cozy spaces, I know I’m going to be in my element.

There’s something magical about trekking all day through the world’s highest peaks and then sitting down in a rustic teahouse, sipping on something warm, surrounded by fellow adventurers.

I can already picture it—my hands wrapped around a steaming mug, the scent of wood smoke in the air, and the sound of the wind outside. Pure bliss!

Nepal – A Spiritual Heartland - The Spiritual Side – Body & Mind Connection

Nepal is a place that oozes spirituality.

It’s home to countless monasteries and ashrams.

Wandering ascetic hermits are scattered throughout the wide valleys and narrow mountain passes, and the devotees of ancient sects of Yoga sit in caves meditating for months at a time.

The Himalayan Mountains are the beating heart of Yoga, and it is the best place to learn yoga in its original cultural context.

Travelling in Nepal can sometimes be a challenge.

Most of the country is taken up by highly inaccessible mountain terrain, but it is just this quality that has entranced visitors for so long.

It is the perfect place to go on retreat and do some deep spiritual work.

The Countdown is On

The next few weeks are all about getting as strong, fit, and oxygen-efficient as possible.

And I’m not just convincing myself that this is a fantastic idea

I know it is!

So here’s to big dreams, big hikes, and the adventures that push us beyond our comfort zones. Annapurna & Everest, we’re coming for you!

Stay tuned for updates, altitude-induced ramblings, and probably a lot of pictures of mountains.

See you on the trails!