As First Mate with Sail Britain: Reconnecting with Nature, I crewed a voyage along Scotland’s west coast, navigating through squalls and unpredictable weather systems. With conditions shifting rapidly, we adapted plans multiple times each day, reading the clouds, the water, and the wind to stay safely on course. My role included supporting navigation, sail handling, and guiding new crew as they learned the fundamentals of sailing. Ashore, the expedition offered time to reconnect with the landscape at a slower pace — walking lightly, pausing to notice small details, and experiencing nature without distraction.