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Follow The Sun Psychology, New Farm (2025)

11/06/2025

The final volcano: Imbabura 🏔️ (aka the Big Daddy of the Ecuador Volcano Challenge)
After a much-needed rest (and an emotional breakup with Cotacachi due to weather + hiker meltdown), we were back at it. 5am drive, stunning sunrise, and Jorge + Robinson driving us a bit further up Imby to save the legs and lungs🙏
At 4,609m (15,121 ft), Imbabura is no joke. It’s steep, it’s moody, and on this day… it was dramatic.
We split into 3 squads:
🚀 Team Rocket Strapped to Their Arses (Bonnie, Tracy, Robinson) – sheer respect
⏱️ Team Metronome (Dom, Alice, Steve) – the human hiking BPMs
🐢 Team Tortuga (me + Jorge) – bringing vibes and questionable lung function
I started with a cough and cold, post-Fuya-Fuyarghhhh slip and slide and wet community day, and it showed. Legs: fine. Lungs: not vibing with altitude. I listened to the bod and bailed pretty early. No regrets. Jorge and I spent the day chilling in nature, dozing, chatting, and watching the fog and rain roll back in like a moody ex.
Team Metronome returned about lunchtime like soggy legends after getting to the ‘shoulder’. Then Team Rocket arrived at about 4pm looking like they’d fought Mordor, lost, and made peace with it (after wrangling it in a headlock). Rain. Wind. Mud. Sheer drop offs. But they crushed it. RESPECT! 🫡
🏅 Massive shoutout to Bonnie & Tracy – resilient, fearless, and somehow still stylish in appropriate storm gear. You win the 🐐 award.
Oh but wait – Imbabura wasn’t done. The drive out? Chaos. Mudslides, sliding vans, and near-death experiences. Even Dom stopped joking. That’s when you know ish is getting real! Finally, I horse-traded my last functioning hiking pole to Robinson and swore allegiance to flat ground forever.
Swipe for Robinson’s epic vids of the last 3 climbs they show the routes, altitude etc 🎥
Next post: R&R and gratitude for the Ecuadorian journey💛💙❤️

09/06/2025

Community Day - Part 2. This is the part I’ve been most looking forward to sharing — how the money raised from our volcanic escapades (read: sweaty, wheezy uphill struggles) is going to be used. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about gringos chasing altitude dreams, it’s about impact. Real, lasting, community-driven impact. The Phoenix Projects are focusing on sustainable development projects that empower communities to thrive long after we’ve come down from the clouds. Enter: Plan Moo, Plan Pollo, Plan Huerta… and the crowd favourite — Plan Cuy! 🐹✨ Yes, cuy as in guinea pigs. But we’re not talking cute classroom pets here — these little guys are a traditional (and tasty) part of the Andean diet, and they’re starring in one of the most innovative, community-led sustainability plans around.
In the photos, you’ll see a brand new guinea pig house going up (cue adorable squeaks) under plan Cuy — and this is no pint-sized pet cage. Each one can house up to 500 guinea pigs, with the little legends sold every three months at the local market. It’s a fluffy, fast-replicating, and surprisingly effective economic model. These cuy houses are funding engines that generate sustainable income for the community 🐾💰 This particular guinea pig palace will be managed by the school, with profits going toward important extras like cultural appreciation days, school celebrations, and community events. Plan Cuy is already helping families in nearby areas generate income — now the schools are stepping in too, creating self-sustaining funding sources that keep the community vibrant and proud. It’s this kind of thoughtful, culturally rooted approach that makes The Phoenix Projects so inspiring. So to everyone who supported the Ecuador Volcanoes Challenge — whether you donated, shared, cheered, or just followed along out of curiosity — this is what your generosity has grown. Not just climbing mountains, but building futures. Stay squeaky, stay generous (fundraising link is still in my bio), and checkout for the other ways your beautiful donations are being put to good use! Another enduring memory: jamming an extra 5-6 locals into the van for the trip back to town 😂

09/06/2025

Climbing for a Cause (and Questionable Cardio): Funding the Future, One Volcano at a Time!!! Why would one slightly overconfident, moderately underprepared but incredibly determined human commit to climbing not one but multiple Ecuadorian volcanoes? Well… to celebrate 20 years of The Phoenix Projects working with indigenous communities in Ecuador, Peru, and Guatemala, of course! 🎉🌋🇪🇨15 years ago, I lived in Otavalo and travelled every day up winding mountain paths to the rural communities of Huayrapungo and Muenala. Urcusiqui school now brings together children from Huayrapungo and Muenala, after a funding rationalisation meant those schools had to close. Many of the kids walk hours each day to get there! But they show up, with grit and pride. And let me tell you, when we arrived, they showed up. Full community attendance—Mums, Dads, Grandparents, siblings, even a few curious perritos 🐕. Each grade performed music and drama, celebrating Mother’s Day, Family Day, and the 20th anniversary of Phoenix Projects. And the Mums? They weren’t going to let the kids have all the spotlight—they danced their hearts out with grace, humour, and enough rhythm to keep even the clouds entertained. The day was also a beautiful reminder of the community’s deep connection with Pachamama—Mother Earth. Before the performances, there were traditional offerings made to honour her and thank her for all that she provides. We feasted together—whole pig style. Mamitas working side by side in the kitchen, serving choclo (a local fave that’s somewhere between steamed corn and popcorn), slow-roasted pork, potatoes and salad. Every child, parent, teacher (and every stray volunteer with trekking poles) left with full bellies and takeaway plates for the family. There was laughter, pride, rhythm (from them), and effort (from us). Yes, the mums did pull us gringos up to dance, and yes, the dads mostly watched from the fence! And you could feel it in the air—joy, community, and deep respect for Dom and Doreen, who’ve walked alongside these communities for two decades. It was one of the most moving days I’ve had in a long time. And it’s only the beginning. Part 2 - where the fundraising goes!

07/06/2025

Day 3 – Welcome to Fuya Fuya, folks! Or as I now like to call it: Fuya Fuyarghhhhh—the sound you make when you’re face-down in a freezing mud slick, wondering where your dignity went. “Fuya Fuya” means “cloudy” in the local Kichwa language, which is apt considering we hiked through roughly seventeen types of cloud, mist, fog, and soul-crushing drizzle. The volcano is a sacred place to the local indigenous communities, believed to hold powerful energy—and today, it very powerfully tested every fibre of our being, balance, and waterproof gear. We started strong. Spirits were high. Legs were ready. Rain jackets were cinched to our eyeballs. But as we climbed higher, the path became a mucky test of willpower and waterproofing. There was no trail—just faith, fog, and some grass tufts masquerading as footholds. The higher we got, the more slippery and sketchy it became. Near the summit, our incredible guide Robinson—protector of lost souls and destroyer of my dignity—looked me dead in the eyes and said, “You—don’t move!”. As the rest of the group huddled behind, he bravely scouted ahead in search of a safe route through what was now essentially an ice-cold mud luge on a 45° angle. Sadly, we had to turn back. Fuya Fuya had spoken, and she said “Not today, gringos.” The descent? Oh, sweet mercy. A true masterpiece of slow-motion chaos. At one point I was sliding down on my bum. Then my tummy. Then, in a surprise twist, I found myself snared in thick tufts of grass—hanging upside down by one leg like a fly in Pachamama’s web. (Yes, this actually happened. No, I have no idea how.)I bent one hiking pole valiantly trying to stay vertical. Robinson—bless him—offered me one of his. I bent that one too. He kindly held my hand the rest of the way down, probably wondering how on earth I had survived this long in life without a helmet and a full-time spotter. When we finally reached the bottom, Robinson gently suggested that perhaps I skip the next volcano. Something about “your pace,” “your footwear,” and “having no functional poles left.” But hey, if you didn’t almost lose a leg to a volcano, were you even in Ecuador?

07/06/2025

My second time ever around Lago Cuicocha and somehow my legs still haven’t forgiven me. 😅 But wow—what a day! This epic crater lake, nestled at the foot of the Cotacachi Volcano, is as breathtaking as ever (literally… the altitude and the views will do that). 🌋💨💙

The trail winds around the rim of the volcanic crater, offering sweeping views of the turquoise lake below and cloud-wrapped peaks beyond. At its highest point—3,512 metres above sea level—we (ok…maybe just me!) were all questioning our life choices, fitness levels, and the meaning of uphill. But then, just as you think you might lie down and let the mountain claim you, the landscape slaps you in the face with some ridiculous beauty and you keep going. Nature is rude like that. 😍

We had absolute dream hiking conditions—sunny, clear skies, but not too hot (thanks, weather gods 🙏). Perfect for soaking in those killer views and pretending you’re in a National Geographic documentary narrated by David Attenborough. BUT… spoiler alert: these bluebird skies did not stick around. Day 3 came in strong, and let’s just say Pachamama reminded us all who’s really in charge. 🌧️🌬️🫣

Physically? Challenging. Mentally? Mostly me negotiating with my own legs. But spiritually? Absolutely nourishing. The car ride to the trailhead was a moment in itself—rolling past patchwork fields, grazing cows, and sleepy Andean villages. The volcanoes here don’t just loom—they buzz. There’s something ancient and electric about them. A reminder that this land is alive. ⚡🌋

Also, highlight of the hike (besides surviving): reconnecting with my old boss-turned-adventure-buddy Doreen from my Guatemala days! And making new trail besties, especially Alice, who somehow managed to keep pace and crack jokes the entire time. A true hiking unicorn. 🦄🥾

Feet status at the end: sore but still functional. No donkeys were harmed (or summoned) in the making of this memory. 🚫🐴

Would I do it a third time? Probably. Ask me again once I’ve regained feeling in my toes. 😂

02/06/2025

Day #1/5: A 5 hour hike around the Otavalo-El Lechero-Peguche Waterfalls circuit circuit. Activating the lungs, legs and feet for what’s to come. I feel very grateful to reconnect with this powerful and beautiful land and to help underprivileged communities along the way. If you’re interested in donating to a worthy cause, please hit up the link in the bio!

01/06/2025

🚨 Volcano Challenge Countdown: T-MINUS A FEW HOURS! 🌋🇪🇨 LINK In THE BIO AND BELOW!

Reporting in live from beautiful Otavalo, Ecuador — where I’ve spent the last couple days “acclimatising” (read: eating everything in sight and sampling the local cervezas 🍻). Let’s call it cultural conditioning. 😉

In just a few hours, we kick off the first of FIVE epic hikes, each one a little tougher than the last. First up: a scenic trek to El Lechero and the Peguche Waterfall — a sacred site for the local Kichwa community. We’ll be easing into things… or at least pretending our hamstrings are ready. 😅

A huge GRACIAS to everyone who’s already donated to the volcano charity challenge 🙏 Your support is genuinely making a difference. If you’ve been meaning to chip in — good news — there’s still time! 💥

💛 Donate here: https://www.globalgiving.org/fundraisers/lisaec/

Alright amigos, time to stretch, hydrate, and mentally prepare for the uphill battles ahead. Let’s do this! 💪🔥

21/05/2025

Ever seen a suassie do a full-body stretch and own it like they just invented yoga? 🐕‍🦺💁‍♂️ Meet our little wellness coach of the day—fully stretched, fully relaxed, and totally in the moment.
Just like your pup’s instinctive “morning stretch,” taking time each day to lengthen your body can do wonders for your mind. Stretching isn’t just about flexibility—it’s a simple, powerful act of self-care that supports:
🧠 Mental Clarity – Gentle movement increases blood flow to the brain, helping you feel more focused and alert.
💆‍♀️ Stress Relief – Stretching lowers cortisol levels, eases muscle tension, and gives your nervous system a chance to reset.
😌 Emotional Balance – It creates a moment of mindfulness in your day, helping to ground you and lift your mood.
🌙 Better Sleep – Loosening up before bed signals to your body that it’s time to wind down.
So channel your inner sausalito —tail wagging, paws out, full-body stretch—and give yourself permission to slow down, breathe deeply, and feel good.
🐾

10/05/2025

💥 STOP SCROLLING. START HELPING. 💥
I’m trading flat whites for altitude sickness and weekend brunches for blisters — all to raise funds for Indigenous children in Guatemala, Peru, and Ecuador. 💛🌎👣

Yep, I’m hiking actual mountains in Ecuador this June (on purpose! 😅) and I need your help to make it count.

If you liked the original post, I love you. But now it’s time to level up — because while likes are lovely, it’s your support that truly helps create brighter futures for these kids. 💸✨

So here’s your gentle nudge (okay, playful shove):
👉 https://www.globalgiving.org/fundraisers/lisaecuador2025/
💥 Feel the feel-good chemicals.
💃 Know you’re helping make a real difference.

Bonus: I’ll think of you every time I dramatically gasp for air on a trail in the Andes. 🫁⛰️
All those Saturday morning breathwork and ice bath sessions are definitely about to pay off… right? 😅

Let’s hike for hearts, kids, and a better future. You in?

10/05/2025

If you need a sign to slow down this autumn... here it is: a sausage dog, fully committed to rest, snuggled under the doona with zero regrets (and one cheeky bum barometer).

As the days get shorter and cooler, our bodies naturally start to shift gears — craving more rest, warmth, and gentler rhythms. It's not just the doggo who needs to hibernate a little — your nervous system, mood, and energy levels are all tuned into the seasons too. That’s not laziness — it’s biology doing its thing.

So take the cue and try a few autumn rituals to match the mood:

✨ Make space for earlier nights and slower mornings (and snuggling into your doona)
✨ Hot drinks and healthy, nourishing comfort meals
✨ Reflective journaling or quiet reading
✨ Letting go of what no longer serves (like the trees do 🍁)
✨ Embracing rest without guilt ✨ Walk through crunchy leaves and let your mind wander

You’re part of nature, too — and just like our furry friend here, it’s perfectly okay to slow down, snuggle in, and just be. So grab your fluffiest socks, breathe in that crisp air, and let autumn be your cue to ground, glow, and grow. 🍁🧡

09/05/2025

🌿 Spotted: One very busy mum and her little sidekick! 🦘💕

This wallaby mama is doing it all — carrying, caring, cuddling (and probably craving a moment to herself!). As Mother’s Day approaches, we’re reminded of just how much love and energy it takes to care for a little one — whether you’re a wallaby or a woman.

💗 To all the mums, mums-to-be, and mother figures: your wellbeing matters. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so take a moment (or a few!) for you. Whether it's a nap, a walk, a deep breath, or a good laugh — it all counts.

💐 And if there’s a mum or mum-figure in your life, let them know how much they mean to you — a kind word, a hug, or a simple “thank you” can go a long way.

Let’s celebrate mums not just for what they do, but for who they are — strong, human, and deserving of care too.

03/05/2025

⛰️ One Month to Go! ⛰️

In just four weeks, I’ll be taking on a charity hiking challenge to raise funds for Indigenous communities in Peru, Ecuador, and Guatemala — and the countdown is officially ON. 🥾

These communities continue to face significant challenges when it comes to education, nutrition, and social wellbeing — particularly for their children. Access to consistent schooling, healthy meals, and basic resources can be limited due to systemic inequality and poverty.

That’s where the incredible work of The Phoenix Projects comes in. Founded by Dom and Dorreen Williams, this grassroots organisation has spent the past 25 years empowering local communities through sustainable development projects — improving outcomes that have lifelong impacts. 💪

🌱 Whether it’s daily school meals, free education, sustainable development projects (including school vegetable gardens) or community support initiatives, your donations go directly to where they’re needed most — on the ground, in the heart of these communities. Donating to Indigenous communities in Latin America is a powerful way to support cultural resilience, educational equity, and long-term self-sufficiency in regions that have historically been underserved and overlooked.

📸 Please check out these photos from for a glimpse of the powerful work your support helps sustain.
Now, I won’t lie — the training has been intense. I’ve climbed so many stairs I’m pretty sure I’ve developed quads that could rival Arnold Schwarzenegger. 💥😅

If you’ve been thinking about donating — no amount is too small. Every penny makes a difference, and together we can help build a brighter future.

💸 Donate, share, cheer me on — or all three! Let’s show up for the kids who need it most. The link to the donation page is in the Bio.

Follow The Sun Psychology

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