As a lone traveller in a foreign land, one is maybe more sensitive to the vibes that others give. Are their actions genuine? Do they mean what they say or do they just tell me what I want to hear. Is there anything lingering behind their smile or are they really angry, jealous or irritated by my actions.

From the moment I met these two, I was greeted with respect. As the trip went on, we shared laughs, our lives, talked about our families and discussed both the life of the people in the Manaslu area and how we admired their strength and warmth.

I could quite simply never have documented this trip without their help. They didn’t just carry my bags and lead the way. They served me food after a long day on the trail. They kept me company as I ate and always waited for me to finish before they ate themselves. They always greeted me with their gentle smile and asked how I slept and then served me breakfast. Again, they would eat only after I was finished. I saw how the other guides, porters and trekkers had respect for these two as well.

There is no doubt in my mind that both Prem and Prakash wanted me to have the best experience possible. I did. The bond from this trip is one that we will share for life.

I want to also thank those who opened up and let me interview them about their own personal beliefs. Thank you. I want to thank all the trekkers who offered encouragement, help, equipment or shared a joke. To all of you, a huge thank you!

I came here to learn something more about myself. I had an idea that I would maybe receive it from the power of the Himalayan mountains. And I did too. I felt an incredible affinity to the power of the Himalayan nature. The peace that I felt whilst doing my yoga practice confirmed this.

Prakash and Prem gave to me without wanting nothing in return. I just had to observe these two human beings to get the best possible spiritual lesson. Be open. Serve others unconditionally. Love.