Having a hard time

[Caminolou]

So me and a friend decided to walk the route Frances starting the 4th of september from st Jean. We all have our reasons I guess. Once we got to Bordeaux he turned arround and went back home. He gave me many reasons why since I came back but hey, he has been forgiven so I dont really care. It probably had to be. Kind of made the start a little rough but I never expected the journey to be easy.

I basically started walking with a guy I met on the train and so it went. Before I knew the camino got hold of me and I met loads of fantastic people all along. I had highs, lows, tears and lots of joy. There where days that i was wondering what the heck i was doing walking again and there were days that where like a dance in the sun. Well you all probably get the point

Once in Santiago I felt relief, thats it, I made it. But it was also the mere end of a great experience. I cant even explain the intense saddness that hit me. The first weeks at home I felt like crap. The constant flashbacks, the memories, i almost feel traumatized

I have been back for 2 months now and its still complicated. Like I am still trying to proces everything that went on but at times its just drowning me. Hopefully I will be back on the camino soon

All the best,
Louis (the Netherlands)

 

[Deleted member 3000]

Hopefully I will be back on the camino soon

That will help! It can take a while to reconcile Camino/non-Camino. They are too different. Try to identify the things on the Camino that are different from life at home and incorporate them every day. For example, you probably approached pilgrims with little trepidation. You could do that because you knew you had something in common. Try that a bit more at home. Most people at home will not be approachable because you lack the same mutual objective, but don't give up the skill you developed while walking. People at home are not much different than from those on the Camino, but the setting is!!

 

[t2andreo]

The cure for all the negative feelings you have is to do it again,. perhaps a different route, or at a different time of year. But, you WILL be back.

 

[VNwalking]

@Caminolou , it sounds a really bumpy landing, but you are not alone. The camino of life is a challenge, and after coming home some people find that much of what used to matter seems hollow and empty, and there is much to miss.

Coming back to the Camino is a quick fix, but in the long run the task is not to throw out everyday life but to integrate what came from the camino into it. There are so many things that seem superficially different but are actually the same. We walk every day. We speak to strangers every day. It's the same blue sky above us and solid earth underfoot. @falcon269 's suggestions are great - and the onward journey for us all is to find our own way in to connecting with others from the heart and finding that camino feeling, at home. How can we be deeply ourselves, and deeply connected with those around us?

It's can be found, under all the distraction, and superficial busyness, and responsibilities....
Find ways to simply be present in a moment.
Reflect about what you miss and if you can bring that into your day to day life.
Go for long walks...alone or in company of others.
Find the friends you can really go deeply with, and do that.
If you have any way to connect with people you walked with, doing that helps.
And maybe your life needs some change or simplification. Reflect about what you deeply want and adjust as needed.
Use this Forum as a drop-in virtual albergue. Here you'll always be able to talk about the Camino!

 

[alexwalker]

Hopefully I will be back on the camino soon

Welcome to the club of addicts.

"You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave."

 

[wcsjms]

[QUOTE="I have been back for 2 months now and its still complicated. Like I am still trying to process everything that went on but at times its just drowning me. Hopefully I will be back on the camino soon "

All the best,
Louis (the Netherlands)[/QUOTE]

Welcome as it was said... to the Camino Family and Camino Addicts. A small word of advice, don't try or work to "process" the experience. Three years later we are still "processing" our first Camino because it was such an intense experience...a life changer. In less than a year(Oct.2019), after needed surgeries, we will be starting our third and longest Camino. The Camino Via de la Plata. Each Camino has taught us life lessons and not always the same but always for the better. So just relax and allow yourself to be absorbed by the Camino, every day comes with an epiphany.

Buen Camino and Welcome to the Family !!!

 

[mette]

So me and a friend decided to walk the route Frances starting the 4th of september from st Jean. We all have our reasons I guess. Once we got to Bordeaux he turned arround and went back home. He gave me many reasons why since I came back but hey, he has been forgiven so I dont really care. It probably had to be. Kind of made the start a little rough but I never expected the journey to be easy.

I basically started walking with a guy I met on the train and so it went. Before I knew the camino got hold of me and I met loads of fantastic people all along. I had highs, lows, tears and lots of joy. There where days that i was wondering what the heck i was doing walking again and there were days that where like a dance in the sun. Well you all probably get the point

Once in Santiago I felt relief, thats it, I made it. But it was also the mere end of a great experience. I cant even explain the intense saddness that hit me. The first weeks at home I felt like crap. The constant flashbacks, the memories, i almost feel traumatized

I have been back for 2 months now and its still complicated. Like I am still trying to proces everything that went on but at times its just drowning me. Hopefully I will be back on the camino soon

All the best,
Louis (the Netherlands)

I know how you feel, I have been back for a year and all I can think about is going back on the Camino

 

[rba]

Start planning your next Camino.

 

[Caminolou]

That will help! It can take a while to reconcile Camino/non-Camino. They are too different. Try to identify the things on the Camino that are different from life at home and incorporate them every day. For example, you probably approached pilgrims with little trepidation. You could do that because you knew you had something in common. Try that a bit more at home. Most people at home will not be approachable because you lack the same mutual objective, but don't give up the skill you developed while walking. People at home are not much different than from those on the Camino, but the setting is!!

I find that harder now.

Im an open type and connect to people easily, especially when wine is served with every meal That saying I also suck at farewells, even when a kid I was always the one crying when my “holiday” friends had to go home

The connections made on the camino went way deeper. In many cases meeting oneanother again after the moment you where sure they where gone forever. Moments where you think its to much of a coincidence. Something is guiding us.

And then it ends. Like everything I guess. Makes me wonder if the way is worth the loss.....

 

[Caminolou]

The cure for all the negative feelings you have it to do it again,. perhaps a different route, or at a different time of year. But, you WILL be back.

I hope I can walk in may with “veterans on the camino”, the selection will be made public in january. Thumbs up mate

 

[kelleymac]

I hear you-- it's a hard change back. Try to incorporate some of the things you valued on your Camino. For me, I've done a number of things: I go to mass more (I'm catholic), or stop by a church and light a candle and think of all the people who have been there before me, and who will come after. I try to walk more (for example, 10 km to church), I've gotten rid of stuff, I try not to spend thinking time on shopping. My next idea is to have people over for meals more often. I'm looking at Spring 2019 for next pilgrimage --somewhere on the Camino.

 

[Caminolou]

@Caminolou , it sounds a really bumpy landing, but you are not alone. The camino of life is a challenge, and after coming home some people find that much of what used to matter seems hollow and empty, and there is much to miss.

Coming back to the Camino is a quick fix, but in the long run the task is not to throw out everyday life but to integrate what came from the camino into it. There are so many things that seem superficially different but are actually the same. We walk every day. We speak to strangers every day. It's the same blue sky above us and solid earth underfoot. @falcon269 's suggestions are great - and the onward journey for us all is to find our own way in to connecting with others from the heart and finding that camino feeling, at home. How can we be deeply ourselves, and deeply connected with those around us?

It's can be found, under all the distraction, and superficial busyness, and responsibilities....
Find ways to simply be present in a moment.
Reflect about what you miss and if you can bring that into your day to day life.
Go for long walks...alone or in company of others.
Find the friends you can really go deeply with, and do that.
If you have any way to connect with people you walked with, doing that helps.
And maybe your life needs some change or simplification. Reflect about what you deeply want and adjust as needed.
Use this Forum as a drop-in virtual albergue. Here you'll always be able to talk about the Camino!

Yes and more. But how? How can we be, walking a long trail or pilgrims way puts us back to our basics. We walk alone, we think alone, we make our plan. Back home, well your only 2% of the plan To much that occupies us, family, pets, taxes and so on. There is no way to step out somehow. Or at least reduce to a more subtile level. So much to take into account.

 

[Caminolou]

I know how you feel, I have been back for a year and all I can think about is going back on the Camino

Thank you, nice to know Im not the only one crazy

 

[Caminolou]

Welcome to the club of addicts.

"You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave."

Golden oldies, all I need now to pull the pin out off my grenade

 

[Former member 49149]

"Coming back to the Camino is a quick fix, but in the long run the task is not to throw out everyday life but to integrate what came from the camino into it."
How does that sit with you? And the quote above, that you just replied to? I wish you patience and kindness towards yourself Yes, the Camino is a life changing experience for many. The trick is to re-member that when the mundane, humdrum of everyday life seems to seep back up to the top. We are such tiny dots in the universe! have a good laugh! keep in touch with some of your camino friends, find some more here... and yes, welcome to the Camino, pilgrim.

 

[Caminolou]

[QUOTE="I have been back for 2 months now and its still complicated. Like I am still trying to process everything that went on but at times its just drowning me. Hopefully I will be back on the camino soon "

All the best,
Louis (the Netherlands)

Welcome as it was said... to the Camino Family and Camino Addicts. A small word of advice, don't try or work to "process" the experience. Three years later we are still "processing" our first Camino because it was such an intense experience...a life changer. In less than a year(Oct.2019), after needed surgeries, we will be starting our third and longest Camino. The Camino Via de la Plata. Each Camino has taught us life lessons and not always the same but always for the better. So just relax and allow yourself to be absorbed by the Camino, every day comes with an epiphany.

Buen Camino and Welcome to the Family !!! [/QUOTE]

Thats how I took it at start. But then you walk along and meet people.

I loved the term and the fact that the camino provides. I have been naughty at times but hey, the camino brought it.

So I talked to an australian one night, he was actually French canadian but lives there. He raised the issue of duality, I was not only on this devine path with God but also with the devil. I havent been raised religiously but this made me rethink many of my experiences that I encountered earlier. It still does now. Where things mere gifts or temptations that I should of have avoided.

Wish I wouldnt of met him

Thats a Joke!

 

[Caminolou]

I hear you-- it's a hard change back. Try to incorporate some of the things you valued on your Camino. For me, I've done a number of things: I go to mass more (I'm catholic), or stop by a church and light a candle and think of all the people who have been there before me, and who will come after. I try to walk more (for example, 10 km to church), I've gotten rid of stuff, I try not to spend thinking time on shopping. My next idea is to have people over for meals more often. I'm looking at Spring 2019 for next pilgrimage --somewhere on the Camino.

Maybe we will meet arround that time

The Netherlands are so seculair its hard to find a church thats open. Im still trying to find some “religious” center that can tell me things about it. God, for the best part, left the Netherlands

 

[Former member 49149]

Welcome as it was said... to the Camino Family and Camino Addicts. A small word of advice, don't try or work to "process" the experience. Three years later we are still "processing" our first Camino because it was such an intense experience...a life changer. In less than a year(Oct.2019), after needed surgeries, we will be starting our third and longest Camino. The Camino Via de la Plata. Each Camino has taught us life lessons and not always the same but always for the better. So just relax and allow yourself to be absorbed by the Camino, every day comes with an epiphany.

Buen Camino and Welcome to the Family !!!

Thats how I took it at start. But then you walk along and meet people.

I loved the term and the fact that the camino provides. I have been naughty at times but hey, the camino brought it.

So I talked to an australian one night, he was actually French canadian but lives there. He raised the issue of duality, I was not only on this devine path with God but also with the devil. I havent been raised religiously but this made me rethink many of my experiences that I encountered earlier. It still does now. Where things mere gifts or temptations that I should of have avoided.

Wish I wouldnt of met him

Thats a Joke![/QUOTE]
Glad you said that! it gave me a laugh. Dear Caminolou, I truly wish that you will find the answers to some of your questions. Not all. Where would you be if you had no more questions to ponder????

 

[irishrock]

the Camino...it's all I think about. I think about it everyday. I watch youtube videos every day. I listen to "The Way" soundtrack every day...It's all I think about, so much so that I've thought about trying to buy an albuergue on the Camino, specifically in Foncebadon. That is one of my favorite places on this planet

 

[Caminolou]

Where would you be if you had no more questions to ponder????

In peace......

 

[Caminolou]

the Camino...it's all I think about. I think about it everyday. I watch youtube videos every day. I listen to "The Way" soundtrack every day...It's all I think about, so much so that I've thought about trying to buy an albuergue on the Camino, specifically in Foncebadon. That is one of my favorite places on this planet

Let me know, maybe we can raise the money together. Its a no brainer with more arriving every year.....

 

[Corinne Lombardi]

Well, I am torn abour commenting. I loved walking the camino, for the reasons sited above, and I love being home with my family.

On the CF, life was about living each day as it came, meeting people of differing beliefs and opinions, and the challenge of ordering coffee in Spanish. Back home, I have realized what I prised most about the experience of walking the Camino was not the scenery. I live in the pacific north west (north america), where the landscape in any direction will take your breath away. I prized the camaraderie of other people I met on the way. No matter the beliefs, opinions or reasons for walking, almost to a pilgrim, those walking the camino put aside political and social differences and treated each other with respect and basic kindness, something very much missing back home.

So, I have decided to continue my camino at home. I say good day to everyone I pass on the street. I steer polarized discussions towards a “bigger” picture. I look for the joy in each day. I walk most everyday for at least a couple of hours. This is the camino I brought home, the one I want to keep in my memory, the lasting effect.

I did not expect the CF to change me or to come home with any epiphanies, but a month later, I find that it did. I need to apply what I have rediscovered. I need to “walk the talk” today and everyday. We often joked on the camino that you need 70 days to walk the camino, 35 to walk and 35 in rehab. Well, I guess my rehab was applying the lessons of common courtesy and generosity to my everyday life. I will probably walk another camino sometime in the future, but I am continuing the one I walked today.

Happy Thanksgiving and Buen Camino.

 

[JillGat]

[[Once we got to Bordeaux he turned arround and went back home. ]]

Bordeaux?

 

[Deleted member 59555]

As every one says go back I went 2017 could not get it out of my head so back in 2018 could not get it out of my head so back I will go this coming April 2019 . This time with my daughter this will be a wonderful experience. but I live in New Zealand this is sending me broke. O well money is not everything but the Camino is. Good luck God bless.

 

[Former member 49149]

Terry. It’s only money... enjoy.

 

[Caminolou]

[[Once we got to Bordeaux he turned arround and went back home. ]]

Bordeaux?

Yeah, we flew from Brussels to bordeaux. He didnt walk a mile

 

[Caminolou]

As every one says go back I went 2017 could not get it out of my head so back in 2018 could not get it out of my head so back I will go this coming April 2019 . This time with my daughter this will be a wonderful experience. but I live in New Zealand this is sending me broke. O well money is not everything but the Camino is. Good luck God bless.

Im Dutch so I guess lucky, Spain is very inexpensive. Hence your ticket will cost a lot more. Buen camino!

 

[Caminolou]

Terry. It’s only money... enjoy.

You dont need it when you have it

 

[Meggins]

I took a couple of days in Santiago and from arrival day to the next day I felt I had lost my pilgrim status. No longer in walking clothes and boots with a backpack, I found I no longer received the usual 'Hola' from fellow pilgrims nor the questions did you arrive today etc etc.
My friends had taken a day trip to Finisterre and though I loved Santiago I felt lost and sad....then a friend arrived and I felt OK again. Definitely some transition time needed
The next time I took a train to Barcelona and thence to Girona (which I loved)
So here I am again plotting in my mind a return to CF Sept 2019!!

 

[lavender girl]

I too suffered severe Post Camino Blues. There is so much useful information in this thread. I am sure you will be able to choose the most applicable to your personal needs. I have found the most useful way for me personally is to virtually 'reinvent' myself from the person I was prior to my Camino to the person that I found myself to be on the Camino and Post Camino.

They are two different people and the latter is much more compassionate, caring, thoughtful and balanced person for sure.

Buen Camino.
Sheron

 

[camino.ninja]

Sounds like more walking. I think it's easier to "walk through" it on the camino.

 

[Robo]

Hi @Caminolou .

As you've no doubt realised, what you are feeling is very common for those who really let go and immerse themselves in the Camino experience.

I have said a few times here, only half joking, that the Camino should come with a Health Warning!

My first was 3 years ago. I have walked 2 more since. And everyday I'm thinking about those past Caminos and the others still to come. Almost every day I'm on this Forum. Which kind of helps, but maybe doesn't As it makes the 'break' harder in some ways.

Trying to integrate your life and lessons of the Camino into your everyday life is the ideal. But I struggle still.

Perhaps the Camino is merely the door we pass through to enter the 'real' Camino. Our Life. Making our whole life better, happier. and more purposeful, based on our walks..........

Who knows

But you're in now ! And trying to work it out like the rest of us

Welcome to the rest of your life!

 

[Robo]

Maybe we are reaching the point where we need to establish a Camino Addicts 'Commune' somewhere in Spain?

We could retire there from normal life and hang out talking Camino all day, having communal meals, and searching for the meaning of "Life, the Universe, and Everything".

And of course a few times a year we could don our packs and head off for another walk, thereby providing a 'top up' of Camino energy and lots more stories to be shared around the dinner table.........

Maybe this is a glimpse of.............Heaven

Or Hell..........depends who lives in the commune

 

[lavender girl]

Maybe we are reaching the point where we need to establish a Camino Addicts 'Commune' somewhere in Spain?

We could retire there from normal life and hang out talking Camino all day, having communal meals, and searching for the meaning of "Life, the Universe, and Everything".

And of course a few times a year we could don our packs and head off for another walk, thereby providing a 'top up' of Camino energy and lots more stories to be shared around the dinner table.........

Maybe this is a glimpse of.............Heaven

Or Hell..........depends who lives in the commune

 

[lavender girl]

Please add me to your list for the Comune I'm a starter,......

 

[Robo]

Please add me to your list for the Comune I'm a starter,......

There are a few complete 'Villages' for sale on or near the Camino Routes !

The Mother of all Albergues...........

 

[susanawee]

Welcome to the club of addicts.

"You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave."

Once having taken that first step, the feeling Never leaves and so many of us become addicted forever..Not a bad such addiction either, I might add

susanawee

 

[alexwalker]

One having taken that first step, the feeling Never leaves and so many ofcus become addicted forever..Not a bad such addiction either, I might .
susanawee

There are worse addictions than the Camino.

 

[lavender girl]

There are a few complete 'Villages' for sale on or near the Camino Routes !

The Mother of all Albergues...........

Unfortunately would cost more more than I have ........maybe we could crowd fund.....

 

[VNwalking]

And then it ends. Like everything I guess. Makes me wonder if the way is worth the loss.....

Of course it is, because that's what brings us to the place where the heart is both open and resilient to the inevitable losses of life. No-one gets through life without dealing with loss, and we need to learn the heart skills of coping with that, with learning how to let things be as they are and to go with the flow.

But how? ... So much to take into account.

Yes, there is. Which is why it's much harder. But it is do-able @Caminolou , and essential. And the here and now are the camino of life - that's the continuation of the camino you were walking. Here, in your life, not someplace else at some other time. It's a tough climb but you can do it. Ultreia, peregrino!

Let me know, maybe we can raise the money together. Its a no brainer with more arriving every year.....

We could retire there from normal life and hang out talking Camino all day, having communal meals, and searching for the meaning of "Life, the Universe, and Everything".
And of course a few times a year we could don our packs and head off for another walk, thereby providing a 'top up' of Camino energy and lots more stories to be shared around the dinner table.........
Maybe this is a glimpse of.............Heaven

Uh-huh. You do know that wherever you go, your 'stuff' - and your mind - goes with you, right? The camino would just become the same regular life you left back home and you'd be back to square one, still needing to face whatever is there to be dealt with. There is no escape.

 

[Robo]

Unfortunately would cost more more than I have ........maybe we could crowd fund.....

I have a thought...........new thread starting shortly.............

The ARK Project
https://www.caminodesantiago.me/community/threads/the-camino-addict-ark-project.59083/

 

[alexwalker]

I have been back for 2 months now and its still complicated. Like I am still trying to proces everything that went on but at times its just drowning me. Hopefully I will be back on the camino soon

I will try to respond to you as an «oldtimer» after many years on different Caminos, because I think I understand your situation. So, I'll spend some time on this one.

The Camino is/can be very powerful, if you are receptive. It seems you are. As you want to go back, you'll most likely have discovered something new. The Camino is calling you back. It is a good thing. The problem with many pilgrims is that they are so eager to reach Santiago. And then, when in front of the Cathredal, they realise that the walk/adventure is over. It becomes a real showstopper for many. Remember; Santiago is NOT the goal; The WAY is the goal, with all it implies for you. Your daily struggle IS the Camino.

it sounds a really bumpy landing, but you are not alone. The camino of life is a challenge, and after coming home some people find that much of what used to matter seems hollow and empty, and there is much to miss.

Much wisdom here. The Camino has more work in store for you.

Use this Forum as a drop-in virtual albergue. Here you'll always be able to talk about the Camino!

It is a relief to be able to communicate in here with people who know exactly what you are talking about. Your nearest in «real life» cannot possibly understand what you have done, but we can: We have been there, like you. We know.

I know how you feel, I have been back for a year and all I can think about is going back on the Camino ?

The strange thing about the Camino is this low but persistent whisper: «Come back to me. I am not done with you». And you know it, I think. The Camino is calling you back.

The connections made on the camino went way deeper. In many cases meeting oneanother again after the moment you where sure they where gone forever. Moments where you think its to much of a coincidence.

Because on the Camino, we are all equal. And there are no social/monetary boundaries. We all walk, eat, sleep, and repeat. As in my sig.line, «Coincidenses are God's way of staying anonymous».

Something is guiding us.

Indeed. But it takes time to figure out. I call it the Camino. And you have to work it out from there.

And then it ends. Like everything I guess. Makes me wonder if the way is worth the loss.....

It doesn't end. Remember, when one door closes in life, two others come open...

I too suffered severe Post Camino Blues.

I know. It is normal.

I have found the most useful way for me personally is to virtually 'reinvent' myself from the person I was prior to my Camino to the person that I found myself to be on the Camino and Post Camino.

They are two different people and the latter is much more compassionate, caring, thoughtful and balanced person for sure.

Also normal. It happened to me too, but I am not done yet. Hence, more Caminos. I am a work in progress. But you have had your time to think anew, during endless kilometres of solitude thinking. Very good.

I once walked out of Burgos and an Australian approached me, started talking. He had a LOT of questions about the Camino and life, and I told him: «When you come to Santiago, you will cry, and you will have changed.»

Upon arriving in Santiago, we sat down in front of the Cathedral (me deliberately 2 meters in front) and I could hear his sobbing behind me. He later said to me: «On the way out of Burgos, I thought you were a complete idiot, but you were absolutely right. I am going back to Australia and apologize to my ex-wife and sons for having been a complete a**hole, and I will try to mend whatever I've done wrong. I will never repeat it». His new ambition was to become a member of the Australian parliament, making good things for his people. I am quite sure he succeded.

As you've no doubt realised, what you are feeling is very common for those who really let go and immerse themselves in the Camino experience.

Perhaps the Camino is merely the door we pass through to enter the 'real' Camino. Our Life. Making our whole life better, happier. and more purposeful, based on our walks...

So true. Use time. As said earlier, when one door closes in your life, two others open. Maybe/most likely to a much better proposition for you.

 

[alexwalker]

I should add, especially for young people: Think OUT of the box; Do NOT stay inside the box. You will be trapped and pushed into dull and ignorant conformity.
. Be very aware. Walk.

 

[VNwalking]

Think OUT of the box; Do NOT stay inside the box. You will be trapped and pushed into dull and ignorant conformity.
Be very aware. Walk.

Once you wake up to some things, you never want to go back to sleep. The struggle is not a bad sign, but a yellow arrow pointing out of the conformity box.
Consuming more and more and seeking shallow ego gratification is not a recipe for joy.
All you need you can carry on your back.
And it's about we not me.
Remember that and you won't go back to sleep.

 

[kelleymac]

Maybe we will meet arround that time

The Netherlands are so seculair its hard to find a church thats open. Im still trying to find some “religious” center that can tell me things about it. God, for the best part, left the Netherlands

the churches have got to be somewhere.... The Netherlands is 22% RC, and there are protestants around too!

 

[JabbaPapa]

Once in Santiago I felt relief, thats it, I made it. But it was also the mere end of a great experience. I cant even explain the intense saddness that hit me. The first weeks at home I felt like crap. The constant flashbacks, the memories, i almost feel traumatized

The advice that I always give to people against the risk of this sort of post-Camino backlash is twofold.

First, always remember on your pilgrimage, whether it's a Camino or a different one, that your final destination is always home -- it's a long walk home, the long way 'round.

The second part is related to the first, in that whenever possible, you should try and make the return home truly a part of the journey and/or a journey in itself.

I'm not saying that this is any kind of magic bullet that will fix all instances of this, but it will work or at least be helpful to some IMO.

A third piece of advice that I offer only to some pilgrims but not to others is, perhaps your Camino simply wasn't long enough ? Some pilgrims, especially the ones who are particularly strong hikers, might need to start from further away than SJPP, else risk not fully satisfying their appetite, and so end up returning home both too soon and too unfulfilled. I have no idea if you are one of these or not, but if so, maybe consider this too ...

Good luck scratching that itch anyway !!!

 

[Caminolou]

Thanks, you guys are the best. Lots to think about. Good to hear its common and I am not loosing my mind

 

[MikeC]

So me and a friend decided to walk the route Frances starting the 4th of september from st Jean. We all have our reasons I guess. Once we got to Bordeaux he turned arround and went back home. He gave me many reasons why since I came back but hey, he has been forgiven so I dont really care. It probably had to be. Kind of made the start a little rough but I never expected the journey to be easy.

I basically started walking with a guy I met on the train and so it went. Before I knew the camino got hold of me and I met loads of fantastic people all along. I had highs, lows, tears and lots of joy. There where days that i was wondering what the heck i was doing walking again and there were days that where like a dance in the sun. Well you all probably get the point

Once in Santiago I felt relief, thats it, I made it. But it was also the mere end of a great experience. I cant even explain the intense saddness that hit me. The first weeks at home I felt like crap. The constant flashbacks, the memories, i almost feel traumatized

I have been back for 2 months now and its still complicated. Like I am still trying to proces everything that went on but at times its just drowning me. Hopefully I will be back on the camino soon

All the best,
Louis (the Netherlands)

I felt much the same as you do after my first Camino in 2016; which was a life-changing experience for me.
I was very confused and unable to get back to normal life for a long time. Talking to the Nuns at Camino Companions helped whilst I was in Santiago https://en-gb.facebook.com/CaminoCompanions/

One thing that did help was being a member of our UK Confraternity of St James (CSJ.org.uk)
They have a 'Returned Pilgrims Day' each year when we can get together with other recent Pilgrims.
Perhaps the Dutch Confraternity can help you?
You can find them at: www.santiago.nl

Happy landings when you get back to earth.

Mike C

 

[VNwalking]

Thanks, you guys are the best. Lots to think about. Good to hear its common and I am not loosing my mind

Perhaps the Dutch Confraternity can help you?
You can find them at: www.santiago.nl

And there are plenty of Dutch members here whom you can talk to in PM space, privately and unmoderated (not that any of the mods speak Dutch, mind you...).

 

[Caminolou]

Thank you again for walking with me these days. I did contact them today and joined as a member. I also got in touch with their volunteering branch which pointed out some possibilities. Guess the camino is calling me because i got a volunteering job in Grado from 1 till the 15 of october next year. And with some luck and Gods help I will be back on trail in may.

Ill call arround on monday and emailed some others, hopefully I can get some work in september also and walk in between. I might be in for a long camino next year. Wish me luck

 

[David Tallan]

Thank you again for walking with me these days. I did contact them today and joined as a member. I also got in touch with their volunteering branch which pointed out some possibilities. Guess the camino is calling me because i got a volunteering job in Grado from 1 till the 15 of october next year. And with some luck and Gods help I will be back on trail in may.

Ill call arround on monday and emailed some others, hopefully I can get some work in september also and walk in between. I might be in for a long camino next year. Wish me luck

Best of luck. Buen camino!

 

[naplesdon]

Caminolou,
Best of luck at Grado, you will love the the experience. I volunteered at San Anton a few years ago and it was an incredible two weeks.
The first time I walked to SdC I broke down in uncontrollable tears in front of the Cathedral. I was so totally overwhelmed and confused I got on a bus that very night and returned to Biarritz as fast as I could.
Since then I have gone back every year for 8 years. I have walked numerous Caminos with many other pilgrims and members of this forum who are my close friends now. The tears still well up with I walk into the Plaza and seeing the Botafumiero swing is still a thrill every time I get to see it.
Next year I will be walking from Le Puy en Velay to SJPdP in June and July.

 

[Thomas@Albany]

I feel your pain--meeting great people during my first 14 days (till Boadilla, rest in 2019) was a wonderful experience, the daily routine at home was a downer, but I am in touch with my Camino mates, and readjusted. A (former) friend walked the entire 32 days, came back changed, and cut a lot of her friendships in a harsh way. At least you're not in that mental state. And by volunteering, you are doing a great gift to us all. You're blessed.

 

[Northern Laurie]

I am so glad to read this thread now. I walked a little over a year ago. The past year has been... something different.

It seems like many people do learn something deep and profound about themselves-something not necessarily obvious (as in most pilgrims learn a deeper appreciation for simplicity) but something very personal. A revealed truth perhaps? Maybe just perspective on our own behaviour or self.

The challenge then becomes facing an old life with new self understanding. And that is painful! Or at least it was in my case.

I gave up a career and a dream because I realized that pursuing it was at the cost of my humanity and my best self. Many buckets of tears were cried.

I threw myself into different roles-some paid some volunteer. Not all of them worked - but I had the sense of perspective and self confidence I needed to rejoice in taking the risk and gracefully changing direction again, without feeling like a quitter or a looser. A year later I feel like I’ve just finished a year long Camino that didn’t involve walking... my next “Camino” probably won’t involve walking-rather going back to school to pursue a dream!

So my words of wisdom, let whatever lessons you learned along the way guide you into a new life. Be prepared for something’s to work and others not. And in the same way that things on the Camino don’t always go according to plan, accept and adapt.

 

[Ko.Z]

So me and a friend decided to walk the route Frances starting the 4th of september from st Jean. We all have our reasons I guess. Once we got to Bordeaux he turned arround and went back home. He gave me many reasons why since I came back but hey, he has been forgiven so I dont really care. It probably had to be. Kind of made the start a little rough but I never expected the journey to be easy.

I basically started walking with a guy I met on the train and so it went. Before I knew the camino got hold of me and I met loads of fantastic people all along. I had highs, lows, tears and lots of joy. There where days that i was wondering what the heck i was doing walking again and there were days that where like a dance in the sun. Well you all probably get the point

Once in Santiago I felt relief, thats it, I made it. But it was also the mere end of a great experience. I cant even explain the intense saddness that hit me. The first weeks at home I felt like crap. The constant flashbacks, the memories, i almost feel traumatized

I have been back for 2 months now and its still complicated. Like I am still trying to proces everything that went on but at times its just drowning me. Hopefully I will be back on the camino soon

All the best,
Louis (the Netherlands)

Caminolou,
I know the feeling!!! I have not even finished walking my first Camino and all I could think of was where would I go next after reaching SDC. I did a 'back to back' Camino - Camino Portugues and Camino San Salvador in the 3 months that I was in Spain.

 

[Honey Bee]

Maybe we will meet arround that time

The Netherlands are so seculair its hard to find a church thats open. Im still trying to find some “religious” center that can tell me things about it. God, for the best part, left the Netherlands

Can you find a Taize group? Their values are similar to those on the Camino. I find reflection and stillness natural by waterfalls or by the lake or in a wooded area. I treasure the solitude and natural sounds.

Honey Bee

 

[AZ Hiker]

Welcome to the club of addicts.

"You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave."

Hi, Alex from Norway. Sally from Arizona here.
Our paths crossed several times this past Oct. I am often finding myself having thoughts of returning for my second Camino.

 

[efdoucette]

Walk every day if possible, short or long, doesn't matter, enjoy your thoughts

 

[MinaKamina]

So me and a friend decided to walk the route Frances starting the 4th of september from st Jean. We all have our reasons I guess. Once we got to Bordeaux he turned arround and went back home. He gave me many reasons why since I came back but hey, he has been forgiven so I dont really care. It probably had to be. Kind of made the start a little rough but I never expected the journey to be easy.

I basically started walking with a guy I met on the train and so it went. Before I knew the camino got hold of me and I met loads of fantastic people all along. I had highs, lows, tears and lots of joy. There where days that i was wondering what the heck i was doing walking again and there were days that where like a dance in the sun. Well you all probably get the point

Once in Santiago I felt relief, thats it, I made it. But it was also the mere end of a great experience. I cant even explain the intense saddness that hit me. The first weeks at home I felt like crap. The constant flashbacks, the memories, i almost feel traumatized

I have been back for 2 months now and its still complicated. Like I am still trying to proces everything that went on but at times its just drowning me. Hopefully I will be back on the camino soon

All the best,
Louis (the Netherlands)

Hi Louis, the Netherlands have a very active Genootschap van St. Jacob and if you like, you can walk part of the Dutch and Belgian Caminos each weekend. Of course the landscape is not the same, and nor is the weather. (Don't mention the weather....) Yet Friesland and St. Jacobiparochie surely have their own beauty. I don't know where you live, but do a little searching and you will find that the Camino is never far away.

if you want to connect with spiritual history, Voorstad St Jacob in Roermond is a great start for a weekend Camino, and then via Thorn, where the Via Limburgica starts, to Maaseik in Belgium and back to Susteren in the Netherlands to catch the train.


https://www.santiago.nl/weg-naar-binnen

https://www.santiago.nl/santiago_aan_het_wad

 

[Martha567]

So me and a friend decided to walk the route Frances starting the 4th of september from st Jean. We all have our reasons I guess. Once we got to Bordeaux he turned arround and went back home. He gave me many reasons why since I came back but hey, he has been forgiven so I dont really care. It probably had to be. Kind of made the start a little rough but I never expected the journey to be easy.

I basically started walking with a guy I met on the train and so it went. Before I knew the camino got hold of me and I met loads of fantastic people all along. I had highs, lows, tears and lots of joy. There where days that i was wondering what the heck i was doing walking again and there were days that where like a dance in the sun. Well you all probably get the point

Once in Santiago I felt relief, thats it, I made it. But it was also the mere end of a great experience. I cant even explain the intense saddness that hit me. The first weeks at home I felt like crap. The constant flashbacks, the memories, i almost feel traumatized

I have been back for 2 months now and its still complicated. Like I am still trying to proces everything that went on but at times its just drowning me. Hopefully I will be back on the camino soon

All the best,
Louis (the Netherlands)

Hej Louise, hang in there! My experience two years ago was the same. Feeling for you!

 

[alexwalker]

Hi, Alex from Norway. Sally from Arizona here.
Our paths crossed several times this past Oct. I am often finding myself having thoughts of returning for my second Camino.

HELLO! Nice to see you at this virtual albergue! And welcome to the latest addict

I stopped in El Burgo Ranero this oct. Will return there to continue, just after next Easter for yet another Camino fix.

 

[Koidream]

...I have been back for 2 months now and its still complicated...

I know what you mean. Just read our signature

 

[SafariGirl]

[QUOTE="I have been back for 2 months now and its still complicated. Like I am still trying to process everything that went on but at times its just drowning me. Hopefully I will be back on the camino soon "

All the best,
Louis (the Netherlands)

Welcome as it was said... to the Camino Family and Camino Addicts. A small word of advice, don't try or work to "process" the experience. Three years later we are still "processing" our first Camino because it was such an intense experience...a life changer. In less than a year(Oct.2019), after needed surgeries, we will be starting our third and longest Camino. The Camino Via de la Plata. Each Camino has taught us life lessons and not always the same but always for the better. So just relax and allow yourself to be absorbed by the Camino, every day comes with an epiphany.

Buen Camino and Welcome to the Family !!! [/QUOTE]
I love this reply...and Buen Camino to you too

 

[SafariGirl]

I am so glad to read this thread now. I walked a little over a year ago. The past year has been... something different.

It seems like many people do learn something deep and profound about themselves-something not necessarily obvious (as in most pilgrims learn a deeper appreciation for simplicity) but something very personal. A revealed truth perhaps? Maybe just perspective on our own behaviour or self.

The challenge then becomes facing an old life with new self understanding. And that is painful! Or at least it was in my case.

I gave up a career and a dream because I realized that pursuing it was at the cost of my humanity and my best self. Many buckets of tears were cried.

I threw myself into different roles-some paid some volunteer. Not all of them worked - but I had the sense of perspective and self confidence I needed to rejoice in taking the risk and gracefully changing direction again, without feeling like a quitter or a looser. A year later I feel like I’ve just finished a year long Camino that didn’t involve walking... my next “Camino” probably won’t involve walking-rather going back to school to pursue a dream!

So my words of wisdom, let whatever lessons you learned along the way guide you into a new life. Be prepared for something’s to work and others not. And in the same way that things on the Camino don’t always go according to plan, accept and adapt.

Beautiful advice

 

[BPG2017]

Can you find a Taize group? Their values are similar to those on the Camino. I find reflection and stillness natural by waterfalls or by the lake or in a wooded area. I treasure the solitude and natural sounds.

Honey Bee

Caminolou, Honeybee has a BRILLIANT idea there. A Taizé group would be a near-ideal solution for the spiritual aspect of the search that you are embarked on. You really should try them! - In addition, of course, to the volunteering for which you have already - very wisely - joined up.

Best of luck, pilgrim!

 

[AZ Hiker]

HELLO! Nice to see you at this virtual albergue! And welcome to the latest addict

I stopped in El Burgo Ranero this oct. Will return there to continue, just after next Easter for yet another Camino fix.

I have May 2019 pencilled in on my calendar to return.

 

[Jermann75]

Hey Caminolou,

Thanks for your vulnerability in sharing yourself with us. I feel like it's very normal to feel out of sorts once you return from the Camino. After all, you aren't the same person who before you began but now you need to return to your life - what is was before.

Go easy on yourself. Give yourself lots of space to breath, be, and process what you just experience (like so many other people say). This could look like meditation, breathing, journalling, crying, smiling in a sunset, however you find peace.

I'm a life coach who also just finished the camino and I'm travelling the world currently in Switzerland. I'd be happy to chat with you if you would like to talk with someone who knows how you feel and will listen to you with my heart, please reach out via my website (I'm also posting my experience on the camino over there too if you're interested): www.onfocuscoaching.ca

Hopefully I hear from you but if you don't reach out that's ok too. Much love being sent your way.

 

[SafariGirl]

So me and a friend decided to walk the route Frances starting the 4th of september from st Jean. We all have our reasons I guess. Once we got to Bordeaux he turned arround and went back home. He gave me many reasons why since I came back but hey, he has been forgiven so I dont really care. It probably had to be. Kind of made the start a little rough but I never expected the journey to be easy.

I basically started walking with a guy I met on the train and so it went. Before I knew the camino got hold of me and I met loads of fantastic people all along. I had highs, lows, tears and lots of joy. There where days that i was wondering what the heck i was doing walking again and there were days that where like a dance in the sun. Well you all probably get the point

Once in Santiago I felt relief, thats it, I made it. But it was also the mere end of a great experience. I cant even explain the intense saddness that hit me. The first weeks at home I felt like crap. The constant flashbacks, the memories, i almost feel traumatized

I have been back for 2 months now and its still complicated. Like I am still trying to proces everything that went on but at times its just drowning me. Hopefully I will be back on the camino soon

All the best,
Louis (the Netherlands)

Caminoulou, Your heart knows what it really wants, just create enough time and space to listen to it <3

 

[Sharonih]

Yes, Louis it does take time to reconcile the walk with not walking, to describe it to others is darn near impossible because it's not just walking. I have found a Page of Facebook that is just Post Camino, no negativity, no well you should do this or you should have done that. Just acceptance and understanding. It helps to be able to talk. For me FB and Ivars forum will have to do until I walk again.

[at home I felt like crap. The constant flashbacks, the memories, i almost feel traumatized

I have been back for 2 months now and its still complicated. Like I am still trying to proces everything that went on but at times its just drowning me. Hopefully I will be back on the camino soon

All the best,
Louis (the Netherlands)[/QUOTE]

 

[JP]

I did the Camino Frances in 2014 and 2017, I can't wait to get back. Planning to start at Puy en Velay and reach Finistere in 2021 when I retire. Thank God for the forum, no one around me wants to hear about it anymore, at least here I can relive my caminos through others efforts.

 

[alexwalker]

Caminoulou, Your heart knows what it really wants, just create enough time and space to listen to it <3

"The heart has its reasons, of witch reason knows nothing about."

 

[Tony Bobcat]

So me and a friend decided to walk the route Frances starting the 4th of september from st Jean. We all have our reasons I guess. Once we got to Bordeaux he turned arround and went back home. He gave me many reasons why since I came back but hey, he has been forgiven so I dont really care. It probably had to be. Kind of made the start a little rough but I never expected the journey to be easy.

I basically started walking with a guy I met on the train and so it went. Before I knew the camino got hold of me and I met loads of fantastic people all along. I had highs, lows, tears and lots of joy. There where days that i was wondering what the heck i was doing walking again and there were days that where like a dance in the sun. Well you all probably get the point

Once in Santiago I felt relief, thats it, I made it. But it was also the mere end of a great experience. I cant even explain the intense saddness that hit me. The first weeks at home I felt like crap. The constant flashbacks, the memories, i almost feel traumatized

I have been back for 2 months now and its still complicated. Like I am still trying to proces everything that went on but at times its just drowning me. Hopefully I will be back on the camino soon

All the best,
Louis (the Netherlands)

I’ve been back a year and a half and there’s not a day go past that I don’t think of the Camino

 

[Bernie Brunino]

I don't think there are many people that walk the Camino and quickly forget about it. I walked it last year and honestly, have never got over it. I continued walking from Santiago to Muxia and to Finnisterra. On my final few kilometers to the lighthouse in Finisterra (end of the line), I actually slowed my walking pace because I didn't want the experience to end. I continued thinking about the Camino until I found it monopolizing too much of my time. I knew I had no other option but to do another one. And so, I started my research and am now planning for the Via Francigena. On my very last day of the Camino, I met a lovely lady at breakfast. By the time breakfast was done, she told me that I would be back for another camino. Very few people stop after the first one and fewer yet stop thinking about it. Boy, was she right in my case.

 

[John MLT]

I hear you-- it's a hard change back. Try to incorporate some of the things you valued on your Camino. For me, I've done a number of things: I go to Mass more (I'm catholic), or stop by a church and light a candle and think of all the people who have been there before me, and who will come after. I try to walk more (for example, 10 km to church), I've gotten rid of stuff, I try not to spend thinking time on shopping. My next idea is to have people over for meals more often.

I guess I found what I was looking for this morning, thank you, I will try to take your advice.

 

[SafariGirl]

"The heart has its reasons, of witch reason knows nothing about."

...and has no need to

 

[NancyLee]

Meggins - due to injury, my Camino was cut short after 6 days in March of this year. I hope to get to Pamplona and bus to where I ‘hit the wall’ and walk to Santiago. Will only have 3 weeks so will most likely have to bus some of the way. My hope is to go September’19. Nancy lee from Canada

 

[JabbaPapa]

I don't think there are many people that walk the Camino and quickly forget about it.

Oh, there are actually many such people, though of course you'll obviously never come across any of them loitering in these forums.

Some of the more dedicated "thru-hikers" for whom the Camino is just one more trail on their bucket list, with nothing special about it from their hiker POV, might pop in here on occasion, but most of such "forgetful" people simply spend some time on the Camino as a holiday choice or as a semi-obligation to others (professional, family, military, whatever), and it simply doesn't affect them as it has us, in our own different ways.

 

[Richmond Gardner]

I find that harder now.

Im an open type and connect to people easily, especially when wine is served with every meal That saying I also suck at farewells, even when a kid I was always the one crying when my “holiday” friends had to go home

The connections made on the camino went way deeper. In many cases meeting oneanother again after the moment you where sure they where gone forever. Moments where you think its to much of a coincidence. Something is guiding us.

And then it ends. Like everything I guess. Makes me wonder if the way is worth the loss.....

Camino Lou, you sound like a really nice person. It can happen again, even if it is not right away. I walked a year and a half ago. Everyday, I am plotting a return. I believe that it will happen and I look forward to meeting people along the way. Some of those I met last time, are still my friends. I write them and try to keep something alive, but we cannot write the future...I think that our continuing devotion will help guide us happily

 

[Caminolou]

Hi guys! Thank you so much for all your support and thoughts. It gave me a lot to think about, I did and acted upon things.

Most important of all, I realised thanks to you, I am still on the camino. It isnt gone the day you get home at all. Seeing that was a great feeling, like meeting friends on the camino again that you didn’t see in a week. Or in weeks, just that last day on the square in Santiago. You all have your examples.

Against the odds really. The camino in all its glory. A punishing with good reasons

I would like to say that my itinerary is set but i’ll go arround as it comes. But definatly I will be on the way next year. Some stages are already concrete on some I have to wait.

Thanks again, I really appreciated all your thoughts!

Louis

 

[David Tallan]

Hi guys! Thank you so much for all your support and thoughts. It gave me a lot to think about, I did and acted upon things.

Most important of all, I realised thanks to you, I am still on the camino. It isnt gone the day you get home at all. Seeing that was a great feeling, like meeting friends on the camino again that you didn’t see in a week. Or in weeks, just that last day on the square in Santiago. You all have your examples.

After we finished our Camino in 2016, my son and I went to do some sightseeing in the rest of Spain with the time we had left before our flight home. I was in a city, far (I thought) from any camino. And there on the pavement I saw painted a yellow shell and yellow arrow. And that was when I realized "The Camino can be anywhere." I took a photo of the shell and arrow and had it made into a tee shirt with that sentence.

Since then, I've learned that is literally true as well. With the Camino Ingles from A Coruña, it is not quite 100 km in Spain, so they let you do the first 25-30 km anywhere as long as you document it.

 

[Tassie Kaz]

As every one says go back I went 2017 could not get it out of my head so back in 2018 could not get it out of my head so back I will go this coming April 2019 . This time with my daughter this will be a wonderful experience. but I live in New Zealand this is sending me broke. O well money is not everything but the Camino is. Good luck God bless.

I'm Australian & can echo the impact of the cost factor.
Finances may take hit...but you are so much richer for the experience.
I'm willing to bet you would not trade a single moment to get the money back...