I remember that after High School, I endured four years of community college and many part-time jobs before I quit and moved away. If I were to do it again, I would not have gone through so many years in discontent.  So, I tell you now, I should have gone “urban backpacking” soon after high school. Now, I share with you a personal story.

After I quit college, I escaped to the island of Puerto Rico. One year later, I returned and attended the National Holistic Institute in Emeryville, CA, where I stayed another year. After two years, I was done with education and travel, but one thing was missing: a happy Spirit. I remember that my body was in good shape, thanks to activities like hiking, surfing, and snorkeling, and my brain was also in good health: the theater, visiting the gallery, and borrowing books at local libraries. But my body and brain had no spirit, so I jumped, I leaped with psychedelic drugs. I remember waking up in the “psych-ward,” where there is enough white space and a psychiatrist.

Then there was good news from books (I will share psych ward experiences later). I found that my environment and biology were not permanent, and I had no obligation to my parents or my birthplace; this included my parents’ addictions and overall poor health, plus the suburbs’ privileges and pressures. And, according to all religions, one moves ahead alone. At last, my psychiatrist gave me a letter of disability, and the Social Security Administration started sending me paychecks right away. I was free to leave the workforce, friends, and family.

In conclusion, I left those who took advantage, were abusive, and controlled my life decisions. Urban backpacking is different from wilderness backpacking, so I advise not only packing light but also investing in a Tai Chi or Yoga center for “energy control,” which is the same as “emotional control.” Ease your mind and carry the crisis number 988 plus the shelter hotline number 211. (The Salvation Army is equipped with bunk beds full of clean linen and open showers.) Go and be free.

Here are two apps. you can download right now.

1. Worldpackers app.

2. Hostelworld app.