🌅 From Nervous Beginner to Confident Hiker: Ru’s Inspiring Hiking Story with Ray of Sun Adventures

Janire
Oct 21
5 min read

Every big adventure starts with one small step — and for Ru, that step happened on a frosty December morning in 2024 at my very first Ray of Sun Adventures guided hike.

The Winter Solstice Walk at Stiperstones was the start of something truly special. Though at the time, I wasn’t sure it would be anything at all — only two people booked on: my mum (naturally) and someone named Ru.

I’ll be honest, I almost cancelled. I thought, is it even worth it? But something told me to go ahead, and I’m so glad I did. That little winter walk became the beginning of an inspiring outdoor story about courage, connection, and confidence in the great outdoors.

Ru wasn’t just my first customer — she became a loyal member of our Ray of Sun Adventures hiking community, bringing along friends, spreading the word, and reminding me why I started this journey in the first place.

Here’s how one small step on a beginner-friendly guided hike turned into something life-changing.

Hiking Community West Midlands — Ru and Kelly on our Hafren Forest Hike with their gorgeous doggos!!

Here’s Ru’s story, in her own words 💛

🥾 Getting Into the Outdoors

“I first got into walking during Covid. My friend and I started as a way to look after our wellbeing and clear our heads. Over time, our walks got longer and more adventurous. Then life hit a bump. I was diagnosed with MS, and a year later, I needed a foot operation that kept me off my feet for quite a while. Losing my mobility for a time knocked my motivation and confidence, and I wasn’t sure I’d get back to walking like I used to.”

Like many people, Ru’s love for the outdoors began as a way to support her wellbeing. What started as short local walks soon became a key part of her routine — a reminder of how powerful nature can be for both mental health and physical wellbeing.

🌞 My ROSA Journey

“I actually discovered Ray of Sun Adventures completely by accident. I was searching for something that combined coaching and walking when I stumbled across an Eventbrite listing for the Stiperstones Sunrise Winter Equinox Walk in December 2024. I nearly didn’t go. I texted Janire to say I wasn’t sure I could manage it and was feeling really apprehensive. But she replied with such warmth and reassurance that it gave me the courage to just go for it — and I’m so glad I did. That first walk genuinely changed everything.”

Ru found Ray of Sun Adventures while searching for something that blended walking, coaching, and connection — a combination that truly reflects what our inclusive hiking community for women is all about.

That first walk wasn’t easy for her. She was nervous, unsure if she could manage it, and nearly backed out. But with a little encouragement and reassurance, she showed up — and discovered not just a hiking event, but a new sense of outdoor confidence and belonging.

This is why I always say: you never know how much one hike can change your life.

🌄 Favourite Trips & Standout Moments

“My favourite trip so far has been the Shropshire Walking Weekend. It wasn’t just the stunning scenery — it was the people. There was such a sense of connection and shared mindset: open, supportive, and full of laughter. Every walk has had a standout moment. It might be the one where I embraced tree hugging, or the one where I was introduced to an AI platform I now can’t live without. But mostly, it’s the people — the conversations, the encouragement, and that wonderful feeling of being surrounded by people who just get it.”

Over time, Ru has joined countless group walks in Shropshire and Wales, connecting with other outdoor enthusiasts who share her love for nature, laughter, and meaningful conversation.

Whether it’s tree hugging on the trail, exploring hidden corners of the Shropshire Hills, or discovering tools that make life easier, Ru’s experiences reflect what community hiking events are all about — adventure, connection, and plenty of fun.

💛 Community & Connection

“What makes ROSA so special is how inclusive it is. Janire has created a space where everyone is truly welcome. There are walks for all abilities, and you’re never left behind. I’ve made some wonderful friendships through ROSA. Walking with a group feels completely different to walking solo; it’s supportive, energising, and full of laughter and good conversation.”

Ray of Sun Adventures was created to help people — especially women — find their confidence in the outdoors. Every event is designed to be inclusive, welcoming, and empowering, so that no one feels left behind.

Ru’s story shows how powerful that sense of belonging can be. Through our walks, she’s found not just fitness and fresh air, but friendship and community — a safe space to be herself, surrounded by people who “just get it.”

🌿 Ru's Inspiring Hiking Story

“Walking with ROSA has brought real change. My fitness has improved, and most importantly, my MS symptoms have eased. I used to rely on my walking pole for balance, especially on rough or downhill terrain. Then one day I realised I wasn’t reaching for it anymore. My leg strength had improved so much that I no longer needed it. It was a powerful, emotional moment — one of joy.”

Ru’s inspiring hiking story and progress has been incredible. As she rebuilt her fitness and strength, she found that regular walking eased her MS symptoms, improved her mobility, and gave her a renewed sense of independence.

Stories like hers highlight the mental and physical health benefits of walking — something I see time and time again within our hiking community. It’s not just about reaching summits; it’s about reclaiming strength, confidence, and joy in movement.

💫 Loyalty & Looking Ahead

“I love everything ROSA stands for. I deeply admire how Janire runs her business — with passion, authenticity, and care. She brings people together in such a meaningful way. I also know that when I walk with her, she’s thought of everything — the route, the recce, and everyone’s safety. That sense of trust and professionalism makes every walk feel effortless and safe.”

From one small guided hike for beginners to multi-day walking weekends, Ru has joined adventures across Shropshire, Wales, and beyond. Her loyalty and enthusiasm reflect everything Ray of Sun Adventures stands for: authenticity, inclusion, and the courage to explore life’s adventurous side.

🧡 Fun & Personality Sprinkles

Favourite kit: My head torch — perfect for walking in the dark.

Favourite clothing: My thermal-lined walking trousers (and since joining ROSA, I’ve developed a soft spot for the ACAI brand!).

Go-to snack: Tangfastics — because life’s too short not to have a bit of sugar and zest on the trail.

Three words to describe RoSA: Empowering • Inclusive • Uplifting

Next adventure: I’ve got my name down for the Anglesey Coastal Path walking trip — and I’d love to do one of the international hikes too (if only work didn’t get in the way!).

Because every hiker knows the right snacks, kit, and gear make every trail that bit more fun!

🌻 From Two Hikers to a Thriving Community

What started as a small winter solstice walk in Shropshire with two people has grown into an incredible UK hiking community for outdoor lovers.

Ru’s courage to show up that day became the spark that built something truly special. Her story is proof that taking one small, brave step outdoors can lead to lifelong friendships, stronger health, and a happier mind.