After the pilgrimage: settling back into everyday life

In short: This is common. After weeks with a clear daily routine and a lot of company, both are suddenly gone. Most people settle back into everyday life after a few weeks.

There is plenty to read about preparing for a pilgrimage, and hardly anything about coming home. Yet many pilgrims say the first weeks back were surprisingly hard.

Why this happens

On the way, the days were simple: walk, eat, sleep. Suddenly there are emails, appointments and decisions again. You also miss the people you spent weeks walking with. And not everyone at home wants to hear long stories. The feeling is normal and usually passes after a few weeks.

Plan a buffer

Don't go to work the day after you get back. One or two days off help a lot. For many people the Camino Finisterre is also a good way of stopping gradually.

What you can take with you

Think about what did you good on the way, and keep one thing from it. That might be a daily walk without your phone, or fewer things in the wardrobe. Stay in touch with the people you met on the way, and finish your pilgrim diary.

The next route

Many people set off again. It doesn't have to be Spain straight away, as a weekend close to home is enough. You will find suggestions in Pilgrimage in Germany and in the Altmühltal section. If you are looking for something different, take a look at the pilgrimage routes of the world.