A Sign from the Algorithm – My First Walk with Ray of Sun Adventures

Written by Marie Yates, a new member of Ray Of Sun Adventures

You know those moments when something pops up on your phone and you feel like the universe (or at least your algorithm) has been reading your mind? That’s exactly how I came across Ray of Sun Adventures. I was mindlessly scrolling and there it was, an article in the

Shropshire Star about hiking, nature, and finding your feet again. I clicked. I read. I bookmarked. And then I hovered over the ‘get in touch’ button for longer than I care to admit.

Source of the River Severn

Ray of Sun Adventures (RoSA) isn’t just about scenic walks and snack breaks (although, tick and tick). Their mission is clear: “We believe in the healing power of the outdoors – for the mind, body, and soul – and we’re here to help you reconnect, recharge, and roam freely.” At the time, I couldn’t have told you what I needed, but it turns out it was exactly that.

I messaged Janire, the woman behind RoSA, explaining why I wasn’t sure I’d be a good fit, nervous after an injury, worried about medical quirks, and half-expecting her to say it might not be suitable. Instead, she replied with calm empathy and a quiet confidence that made it

feel entirely possible. Her attitude was pure ‘you’ve got this’ without ever needing to say the words.

So, I signed up. Hafren Forest. 14.5km. And, to be completely honest, I talked myself in and out of going at least a hundred times in the 48 hours before we were due to meet.

But I turned up. And I’m so glad I did.

Janire was waiting, calm and prepared, making gentle introductions that quickly turned strangers into friends. Within five minutes we were talking about dog poop (don’t worry, there was context), and I thought to myself ‘these are my people’! That’s how fast things shifted, from nerves to nattering.

Janire has this subtle, brilliant way of making you feel completely secure before you’ve even taken a step. You just know she’s got this. The pace was relaxed, the group welcoming, and to my absolute delight, we were joined by three brilliant dogs, plus their humans, of course.

Walking in nature has long been associated with improved mental and physical health, and for good reason. Research shows that movement, open spaces, and connection with others can lower cortisol levels, reduce anxiety, improve fitness and even spark creative thinking.

But it’s not just science, it’s the feeling you get mid-hike when conversation flows freely, laughter comes easily, and you realise how rare it is, as an adult, to make new connections like this.

And then there were the dogs. My own work revolves around the power of the human- canine bond, and on this walk, I saw it in full force. The dogs brought joy, sparked conversation, and acted as furry social glue holding us together. Watching them tear around the forest, sniffing, rolling, and then racing back to their humans like it was the best day of their lives, it was pure magic. Their presence brought a sense of ease, sparked conversation, and had us laughing together in no time.

It rained, of course. This is Wales and forests don’t water themselves. But no one flinched. We zipped up our jackets, pulled on our hoods, and ate our sandwiches under dripping trees like the seasoned legends we clearly are. It passed quickly, the skies brightened, and the views, my word, the views, were well worth a soggy moment or two.

The truth is, this walk was medicine, the kind that meets you where you are and gives you exactly what you didn’t know you needed.

Janire made that happen. Her leadership, warmth, and grounded confidence created the space for us all to enjoy something special.

If you’re hesitating, take this as your sign to a walk with Ray of Sun Adventures. Message Janire. Show up. You won’t regret it.

Walking through Hafren Forest

Doggos and their humans!

The gang at the source of the River Severn

Scenic Forest Trails

Walking on the boardwalk

The crew

Ready to join Ray Of Sun Adventures on an adventure?

If this sounds like your kind of adventure, check out our Events Page for upcoming hikes and trips in the UK and abroad. And if you’re feeling nervous or have questions — just like Marie did — don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re always happy to chat and help you take that first step. Drop us a line at hello@rayofsunadventures.com — your next adventure might just be one email away.