Before being diagnosed with Ménière’s Disease in 2023, I enjoyed walking regularly in the outdoors. Dad had kindly passed down lessons on the healing simplicity of wandering in nature. 

Ménière’s Disease is a little-understood and rare condition in which disruption to the inner ear organs affects balance, hearing and spatial awareness. Characterised by tinnitus, variable and progressive hearing loss and vertigo, the disease compromises the human navigation system in unpredictable ways. 

A medical specialist recommended exercise, fresh air and regular body movement to regain balance confidence. Facing the loss of my business and a new routine of medication and management of environmental stressors, I joined Walk1200km as a way to focus on a positive daily practice. 

Since joining I have walked the Queen Charlotte Track, an easy option since luggage can be transported daily and accommodation is included. Advice through a New Zealand Ménière’s support group helped me understand how others enjoy outdoor sports on land and in water. During the walk I managed with regular nutrition and hydration, keeping medication to hand in case of vertigo attacks, slowing my pace and using walking poles.

I notice that when I’m in the bush, the sounds around me mute the constant tinnitus I experience. My mind can rest, which allows me to focus on my surroundings. It offers a way I can practise mindfulness, which helps ease the depression and anxiety of coping with a life-changing diagnosis. 

In January I walked the Banks Peninsula Track. Again, having luggage carried and accommodation ready on arrival meant I could focus on my energy and balance throughout the day. 

Walking in variable terrain builds muscle and strength in my lower body, legs and ankles, and helps exercise balance and spatial functionality. 

I’ve found walking in the great outdoors is my healing balm.

– Avalon Sanders