We caught up with Amira The Wanderlust, to hear all about her journey exploring the outdoors and all the amazing work she’s doing within the hiking community.
Tell us a little about yourself...
My name is Amira I’m 28 years old and I’m from Bolton. I’m a Muslim British Indian. I currently work at a Spa retreat, and when I’m not working you’ll find me somewhere in the mountains.
Where did your love of the outdoors come from?
In my childhood years, moving into my teens, I was always a bit of a wanderer and explorer.
When I’m not traveling I spend my free time in the outdoors. I enjoy hiking, cycling currently I have started wild swimming and trail running and want to progress further With paddle boarding and rock climbing.
What is your philosophy for life?
As a Muslim according to Islam, the purpose of man’s creation is the understanding and worship of Allah (god) with complete devotion to Him. The purpose of life for me is to worship god and please him. My aim in this world is to work towards being a good person inside and out, to Practice my faith, to stay away from sins and continue to become a better person. I am constantly working on myself spiritually to get closer to God.
How do you find motivation?
Motivation is central to creativity, productivity, and happiness. Motivation is what causes us to act, and when we act, we create movement, growth and we create more of what we love in our lives.
I write my goals and work towards them no matter how big or small they are I write down everything. It’s all about the mindset as the mind is very powerful. You have to challenge your fears and take that step towards your goals even if you don’t achieve them, failures are good as they make you stronger, all you have to do is try again.
I’m generally a very active person which helps me to keep Motivated, yes there are days which you can’t be bothered and that’s okay it’s just about picking yourself back up and starting again.
We’ve seen your recent instagram posts about getting into the gym / fitness, how are you finding this?
I love it , I’ve always been on and off with gym but in the last two years I seriously wanted to make changes to my body. I had put on a lot of weight and was very unhappy. I started off with boot camp sessions which were so hard (to the point I was sick) and challenging but this gave me the push to do more.
I remember I couldn’t lift 2 kg dumbbells and now I am able to do 10kg, this is due to the hard work I have put in. When lock-down approached and gyms were closed I started running and working out at home, which made me realize how much we can do in the comfort of our homes. I’m still on my fitness journey.
What is your favourite mountain you’ve adventured on?
In the UK I would say I really enjoyed Wales Mount Snowdon, Y Garn and devils kitchen which we did with you guys. I also loved Scafell pike (even though it was challenging) as this was the first highest mountain I climbed.
Abroad definitely has to be the Swiss alps, the mountain range in Reunion island and Atlas Mountains. Sorry I couldn’t choose one!
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced since starting your outdoor journey?
I think the biggest challenge for me was when I started the veil. I had many thoughts in my head such as
Will People look at me differently? Will I get racist remarks? Would I be able to hike in a veil? And so many other concerns. I couldn’t let this stop me as the outdoors is part of my life. I had to take that first step and just go for it and since I have done I have had so much support and that’s really encouraged Me and inspired many others.
We really admire all the work you’re doing with the wanderlust women hiking group, what inspired this? And what are your goals?
Thank you. The wanderlust women “is a group I created for females targeted for Muslim women to encourage them into the outdoors. My future goal is to create outdoor meditation retreats for women.
As a Muslim we remember god at all times and whilst being in nature we are enable to appreciate the beautiful world God has made for us, “Connecting to God (Allah) through nature.” I believe being active in the outdoors is good for your mental health as well as your physical health and this is why I want to encourage these women to get outdoors. Nature’s beauty is one of the most wonderful blessings gifted to mankind by God.
Who are your heroes / sources of inspiration?
My mother she’s the strongest person I know and has taught me many valuable lessons, without her I wouldn’t be where I am today.
My friend Asma who encouraged me and inspired me to climb mountains.
In terms of the way I live my life the best role model to mankind for me and Muslims is Prophet Muhammed (PBUH). He was a man of good character and conduct and taught us kindness , helping others , giving charity , having a good heart, being good to people, good manners, not to hate and love and to spread peace.
Do you have anything exciting planned for the future?
Yes!!
So for myself I’m planning a trip to Alberta banff, a Ski trip as I want to do try some winter activities and also a trip to the Dolomites, really looking forward to this. I am also Planning mindfulness retreats for the wanderlust women which will involve hiking, activities, mindfulness and meditation.
What do you find most rewarding about the hiking community?
The support and encouragement.
I have had continuous support from the outdoor community which has enabled me to progress further specially with the wanderlust women.
When you hear the words bucket list what springs to mind?
My bucket list is never ending here are a few…
- Backpacking South America
- Northern lights Iceland
- Everest basecamp
- Volunteer work elephant sanctuary
- Animal Conservation Work On Africa
Thank you so much for interviewing me.
