That’s right — you are allowed to talk about anything. Sex, drugs, rock and roll, life, politics, whatever. And the nice thing is, those who participate are obligated to listen. You know, like your average everyday shrink.
All people are welcome. Although we may set limitations on some hikes based on age, only for social purposes. Everyone is welcome, and we have a few rules: no aggressive behavior, no marital cheating, no drugs, alcohol, or smoking, no harassment regarding relationships or requesting to get to know someone better.
This is not a self-help group run by professionals. This is life in action the way it should be. Thoughtfulness and gratitude for the sake of socialization. People need people.
It works because of what a trail does to a conversation — you’re side by side instead of face to face, you’re moving, and nobody has to hold eye contact while saying something hard.
Over 7,500 people have signed up since TrailShrinks started. The hikes went quiet for a stretch, and we’re bringing them back. TrailShrinks is alive again, and we are here to serve past members and new members.
Beyond the weekly hikes, TrailShrinks runs annual trips. Las Vegas every January is the flagship. Past and planned destinations also include Spain, Eastern Europe, Asia, Argentina, and Colombia.
Every hike needs someone willing to be last on the trail — the person who makes sure nobody gets left behind. Sweeps get a discount on that event and credit on their member profile. It’s a small thing that says something about how the group runs.
TrailShrinks is a program of the Foundation for Job Creation, not a separate outfit. The hikes bring people together; the Foundation’s other work gives them somewhere to go next. TrailShrinks.com is in development and will carry the hike schedule and trip details.
Weekly hikes and annual trips. Click any photo to see it larger.
