August 18th 2024.
A 53-year-old woman from Canada was discovered alive and unharmed after she went missing while participating in a backcountry spiritual retreat in the San Juan Mountains. The group she was with, the Durango-based Animas Valley Institute, had instructed participants to fast and leave behind all electronic devices in order to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.
On Thursday afternoon, the woman's group reported her absence to the San Miguel County Sheriff's Office, prompting a search and rescue mission. The campers were staying in the backcountry area near Lone Cone Peak, located in the vicinity of Norwood. The organization's purpose is to guide individuals through an exploration of nature and the mind, offering programs such as Soulcraft intensives, contemporary vision fasts, and training for nature-based soul guides.
According to the sheriff's office, the organization had strictly advised the campers not to bring any technology and to fast in order to "maximize a spiritual experience with nature." However, this ultimately led to complications when the woman failed to return from her "solo journey" on Wednesday. Search and rescue crews quickly mobilized, utilizing ground teams, K9 search teams, and aircraft to locate the missing woman. After two days of searching, she was finally found safe and sound on Saturday.
Sheriff Bill Masters emphasized the importance of being properly equipped when venturing into the backcountry, stating that individuals should always carry technology for communication and enough supplies for their trip. He also warned against following the advice of "guide" services that may suggest neglecting these basic safety rules. Nature can be unpredictable, and without proper preparation, it can turn dangerous.
Overall, this incident serves as a reminder to always prioritize safety when embarking on outdoor adventures. While it can be tempting to disconnect from technology and push ourselves to the limit, it is crucial to do so within reason and with proper precautions in place. Let's all ensure that our next outdoor excursion does not become a cautionary tale for others.
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