0 km: The End

Choosing the Bello Gallico as my Misogi was not by chance. This 160-kilometer ultra-hiking adventure through Belgium’s muddy and rugged terrain was my journey of introspection, perseverance, and transformation. When I crossed the finish line on Sunday around 5 am, after 33 difficult hours, I felt a mixture of exhaustion and tremendous relief. My feet were numb, my vision blurred from fatigue and my body trembled from the cold and lack of sleep. In the midst of it all, I craved the simple pleasures of a hot pizza and a cold Coca-Cola and fantasized about soaking in a warm bath.

The Essence of a Misogi

Misogi, rooted in ancient Japanese tradition, was once about purification under cold waterfalls for physical and spiritual cleansing. Today, it has evolved into a global practice of embracing challenges that push us to our limits and forge deeper connections with ourselves.
Misogi is about going beyond your comfort zone and achieving something truly meaningful. Governed by rules that emphasize embracing uncertain success, seeking discomfort, and ensuring safety.

My Misogi: The Bello Gallico

Around 60 participants meticulously checked their gear in order to endure the upcoming 160 kilometers. The starting line was full of quiet excitement and companionship. A feeling of being together and being apart at the same time. A distance equivalent to running the length of a professional football pitch 1,777 times. Or, 214,374 steps.

The adventure began on a Friday at 8 pm with the gentle melody of „Silent Night“, played by a child on a trumpet. As I ventured out into the night, the path ahead was only illuminated by my headlamp and the stars above, marking the beginning of a journey that was as much about conquering the trail as it was about exploring my physical limits.

Why Misogi?

In a world where New Year’s resolutions often fade by February and personal development becomes increasingly difficult due to the constant buzz, Misogi offers a sustained, adventurous path to personal transformation. Reflecting on the moment I crossed the finish line, I see Misogi not just as an endurance race, but as a philosophy of life. It’s a commitment to push beyond perceived limits, to find clarity in the midst of struggle, and to embrace growth.

Welcome to the Misogi Mindset

This book is my invitation to you to explore the concept of Misogi, find your challenge and discover the untapped potential that lies within. It’s a journey that promises no easy victories but does guarantee growth, insight and the kind of satisfaction that comes from facing fears.

• What is the longest journey you’ve ever embarked on, not in terms of kilometers, but in terms of effort and growth?

This story is part of my book: „Misogi Mindset: Transforming Lives, One Adventure at a Time“ (Picture by Stefano Leone)