Bombarding Body Language: A Journey Through Nepal's Mountains

As I stepped out of the tea house and into the crisp morning air, I couldn't help but notice the vibrant colors of the local market stalls surrounding me. The streets were alive with activity, as people went about their daily routines, completely unaware of my presence. It was as if they were a part of the scenery itself, blending in seamlessly with the rich cultural heritage that surrounded them.

I made my way to meet up with our guide, Dipak, who had arranged for us to take on an expedition to basecamp in the seasonal village of Bimthang. Our mission was to attempt a new route on Panbari Himal, a 6,905-meter peak that has only been climbed once before. The thought of it sent shivers down my spine as I gazed up at the towering mountain range.

As we set off, our muleteer expertly navigated the train of donkeys carrying hundreds of pounds of expedition equipment through the forest canopy. The air was thick with mist and the sound of monkeys chattering in the upper branches only added to the surreal atmosphere.

It's moments like these that remind me of the importance of being present in our surroundings. When we allow ourselves to be fully immersed in a place, we begin to notice the subtle cues and signals that are often missed by those who rush through life without taking the time to truly observe.

I think back to my first glimpse of Manaslu, the world's eighth-tallest mountain, as we prepared to land in Kathmandu. The sheer scale of it left me awestruck, but it was only when I took the time to really look that I began to notice the intricate details – the way the light danced across its surface, the wispy clouds drifting lazily across its peak.

As we make our way through the trails and gorges, I'm struck by the vastness of this beautiful country. The ancient history and cultural heritage of Nepal are palpable in every step, every glance, every breath taken in. It's a reminder that even in the most remote and inhospitable places on earth, there is always beauty to be found.

As we reach basecamp in Bimthang, I'm filled with a sense of excitement and trepidation. The journey ahead will undoubtedly be challenging, but it's moments like these that remind me why I do what I do – the chance to immerse myself in a new culture, to push my own limits, and to experience the raw beauty of nature.

For now, though, we rest and refuel, our bodies battered but our spirits high. We know that the journey ahead will be long and arduous, but for now, we simply take in the breathtaking views and let the rhythm of this incredible place wash over us.

Bombards body language