The Camino de Santiago
The Camino Francés or French Way, the most popular route of el Camino de Santiago or Way of St. James — is an important Catholic pilgrimage route to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, where tradition holds St. James’ remains are buried.
Today, there are still many pilgrims who undertake this route for reasons of faith and religious sentiment, or as thanks for some request that they feel has been fulfilled.
Alongside the religious aspect is the spiritual aspect. The boundaries are blurred and have a lot to do with what one understands by "spirituality".
The challenge is not only physical. The Camino encourages introspection and, as we progress, deeper reflections will displace the quick thoughts of everyday life. The slow pace and relative monotony of the route helps to reduce activity in the prefrontal cortex of our brain, which is associated with a greater sense of calm and happiness.
