HO HO HO!

The Adrenaline of the Season

While the rest of the world seemed to slow down into a festive slumber, my Christmas was an

explosion of motion and peak physical performance. The true essence of the holidays wasn't found under a tree, but at the summit of a grueling climb and in the cool depths of a morning swim. I chose to celebrate the "Season of Light" by chasing the sunrise on my bike, feeling the burn in my lungs and the wind on my face as a form of holiday worship. There is a profound, "cool" clarity that comes from pushing your body to its limits while others are resting; it turns the holiday into a victory lap for the soul. This wasn't just about fitness it was about reclaiming the spirit of Christmas as a time of rebirth, strength, and unstoppable momentum.

The Elyu Pilgrimage: A Coastal Christmas

The ultimate highlight was the trek to La Union, the legendary Elyu, where the Christmas vibe is transformed into something raw, coastal, and incredibly vibrant. Traveling there during the peak of December felt like a pilgrimage to the heart of the "cool." The atmosphere was electric a seamless blend of festive carols and the rhythmic thunder of the surf. Instead of the usual heavy winter aesthetics, my Christmas was painted in shades of ocean blue and sunset gold.

Whether I was navigating the winding roads on two wheels or diving into the Pacific to wash away the year’s stress, Elyu provided a backdrop that made the holiday feel like a continuous, sun-drenched festival of life. It was the perfect reference point for how a modern, adventurous holiday should feel.

Redefining the Festive Essence

Reflecting on this journey, the essence of Christmas has been completely redefined for me as a fusion of grit and gratitude. By choosing to hike the toughest trails and swim the coldest waters, I found a deep, internal joy that beats any material gift. Reference is often made to "Peace on Earth," but I found that peace through action the quiet focus of a long-distance ride and the rhythmic breathing of a steep ascent. This Christmas was a testament to the idea that we don't have to stay still to find meaning. By traveling to the coast and staying active, I celebrated a dynamic Christmas that honored the past year's challenges while charging headfirst into the new one. It was a holiday of salt, sweat, and spirit—the coolest way to close the chapter.

References:

Visit Surrey. (n.d.). A very penguin Christmas | Claremont landscape garden. https://www.visitsurrey.com/event/a-very-penguin-christmas-%7C-claremont-landscape-garden/268601101/

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