We are becoming an indoor generation, trying to run our lives through a screen. But, if you see past the monotonous responsibilities, you’ll notice a beautiful world out there for us to explore. Living the outdoors is Rajni Yadav (T38-304), a trekking enthusiast.
Rajni hails from Haryana and used to work for the Ministry of Tourism. Her family includes her husband and two sons. Along with playing volleyball nationally, she was an NCC cadet & got a taste of trekking there.
Rajni tries to do 2–3 major treks annually. She has completed 22 treks till date: wow! She summitted the Everest Base Camp (EBC) in March, in -30°C weather! EBC is every trekker’s dream. It’s a difficult trek of at least 14 days with extreme weather and high altitude. Despite it being her first expedition, she completed it in 11 days!
Rajni began preparing three months back, working on her strength & endurance. Along with gym, Rajni participated in marathons/ walkathons. During this journey, she became more health conscious. Her family & friends too got motivated towards health & fitness.
Rajni says, “Trekking to the EBC was the most incredible experience of my life. It holds a special place in my heart because connecting with nature is always soul healing.” She now has her eyes set on Deo Tibba & the Annapurna Base Camp.
Rajni is also a keen learner of new activities. She learnt skating recently & is now actively pursuing weightlifting. For her frequent treks, she is appreciative of her husband & in-laws who support her wholeheartedly.
What is Rajni’s advice to the ‘indoor generation’? “Please take a break from your 9 to 5 job. Don’t spend the weekend binge watching the same series repeatedly. Give yourself the much-needed holiday. Give the mountains a chance because the aftereffects of trekking are worth the efforts.
There are also social benefits of trekking. Not only do you get to explore and experience a new destination, a new culture, new people, new cuisines, but you also befriend strangers over horror stories by the bonfire or over the unconditional love for Maggi that emerges out of nowhere in the mountains.”
Rajni proves it well that we’re never too old to play outside! All the best for your future treks!
by Shilpa Seksaria (T-17/705, 9015323211)
