Essential Experiences List: Crafting a Life of Meaning, Adventure and Soulful Connection

We all have our dreams, don’t we?

I know I sure do, what about you?

Some people call it a bucket list, others a dream document or even a dare diary. For the nostalgic adventurers out there, it might be a “chasing waterfalls” list, for those who remember TLC's iconic anthem (sorry, not sorry for getting this stuck in your head)

For me, I call my list an Essential Experiences List—a curated collection of moments, places, connections and dreams that feel like soul whispers calling me to embrace the fullness of life.

An essential experiences list is so much more than just a list of to-dos or even a collection of dreams. It is a living embodiment of what it means to experience life wholeheartedly, without rushing to check boxes but instead choosing to savour each moment with presence and intention.
Rather than just crossing things off a list, this list is all about showing up fully for life, for the experiences that resonate deeply with who we are and who we are becoming.

I am choosing to embrace a new paradigm by seeking essential experiences rather than just reaching goals, or going planes before I kick the bucket. Before we dive into the essence of my list, I invite you to take a moment with me to reflect on the difference between goals and an essential experiences list, because each plays a unique and valuable role in our lives.

A goal is a concrete objective, something measurable, something we pursue with a timeline, and driven by milestones and discipline. Goals keep us grounded and focused; offering a sense of pride and  accomplishment when achieved. Think of things like running a marathon, attaining a degree or building a business. These achievements require commitment and often bring a sense of pride and progress

An essential experiences list however is all about discovery, growth and the moments that make us feel alive. This list is not measured in deadlines or milestones; but by depth, wonder and the emotions it evokes, the moments that expand our understanding of the world and ourselves. While goals often have a tangible endpoint, essential experiences are open-ended—they are about living deeply, savouring and allowing life to unfold with wonder and curiosity.

While goals are often about progress, essential experiences are about moments that make our hearts beat faster, fill us with awe and nourish our souls. The kind of list that allows and encourages us to explore. It invites us to step outside our comfort zones, to seek adventure, beauty, connection, love and joy.

Goals are often about achievement and progress; Essential Experiences are about moments that make our hearts beat a little faster, our eyes widen in awe, and our souls feel nourished.

Creating an essential experiences list is like crafting a love letter to life itself. It is about asking yourself, What lights me up? What do I desire to see, feel, explore or accomplish?
Each experience tells a story, evokes deep emotions and reminds me of the richness of living fully. Below is a glimpse into some of the most meaningful moments that have shaped me.

Each essential experience brings with it a spectrum of emotions. Each feeling adds richness to the journey, teaching me about the beauty, depth and complexity of life.

Joy comes from moments of spontaneity and heartfelt connection, like dancing in the rain or watching a sunset from a new land.

Awe fills my heart when I stand before natural wonders, ancient landmarks or even the twinkling night sky, feeling humbled by the vastness of the universe.

Love grows through shared experiences, from proposing on the Great Wall to stargazing with loved ones, to moments of laughter and shared dreams.

Empowerment and freedom are felt when I challenge myself—like when I became a keynote speaker or embraced vulnerability during my boudoir shoot.

Sadness sometimes accompanies experiences like visiting historic sites of suffering, but these moments teach compassion, humility and gratitude.

Here are some highlights from my essential experiences list—those transformative, breathtaking and soul-enriching moments that have shaped who I am today. These experiences are not just memories; they are chapters of my journey, etched into my being.

Travel has been a thread woven through my life from an early age. By the time I was 8, I had traveled overseas eight times, a privilege that planted seeds of adventure, curiosity and open-mindedness. Each journey, each destination, offered a new perspective, a new flavour of life. China, New Zealand, Singapore, Cambodia, Vietnam, The Philippines, Indonesia, America, Vanuatu, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and many other destinations—each place taught me something about the world and about myself. 

Standing in awe of the ancient Terracotta Warriors, exploring Angkor Wat like Lara Croft by the so-called Tomb Raider tree where Lara Croft picked a beautiful jasmine flower, wandering the vibrant streets of Kuala Lumpur, hearing sheep bleeting in New Zealand, and savoring the aromatic delights of Singapore—these experiences revealed the vastness of the world and my small, beautiful place within it. They taught me humility, the value and appreciation of diversity, and the beauty of human connection across cultures, proving how travel expands perspectives and enriches the soul.

Travel expands our perspectives, connects us to diverse cultures, and invites us to see the beauty in the unfamiliar.

Buying a House with My Love: Buying a home and building a life with someone I love has been a profound journey of commitment, growth, and joy. This space, filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams, symbolises our journey together, teaching me the power of love to heal, strengthen and inspire.

Love, when nurtured and cherished, is a powerful force for building not just a home, but a life filled with connection, growth and fulfillment.

A Magical Engagement on the Great Wall of China: Falling in love and building a life with someone has taught me vulnerability, trust and joy. Saying “yes” atop the Great Wall of China in 2018 felt like a fairytale—an unforgettable moment that encapsulated love, exploration, connection and a commitment to embracing the beauty of life together.

Love teaches vulnerability, trust, and the joy of building a life together.

Creating Wild Wellness with Hannah and Launching Wild Woman Gateway: Starting Wild Wellness with Hannah and launching the Wild Woman Gateway have been transformative journeys, reflecting my passion and purpose. These ventures are more than achievements—they are spaces for connection, empowerment, and growth. Every session, workshop, and client interaction has deepened my empathy and taught me the profound impact we can have on one another. Witnessing transformations and building a community of healing and growth has been one of my greatest joys, shaping my life in ways I never imagined.

These ventures have revealed the deep joy and fulfillment that come from living authentically and creating spaces for healing and connection.

Presenting on the IHeartVT Worldwide Platform: Being a keynote speaker and presenting on the IHeartVT worldwide platform was both nerve-wracking and exhilarating. Standing in front of an audience, sharing my insights and connecting with people from different backgrounds was a powerful reminder of the importance of voice, passion, and purpose. It taught me that my story has the potential to inspire others and that sometimes the most vulnerable moments are the most impactful.

This was a transformative experience that taught the value of speaking from the heart, and reaffirmed that my voice, when used with passion and purpose, has the ability to inspire and connect people, no matter their background.

Publishing 50+ Blog Posts and Beyond: Writing has been a sacred practice throughout my life, and publishing 50+ blog posts has been a powerful reminder of the ability of words to heal, inspire and connect. Each post is a piece of my heart, a moment of reflection, and a bridge to connect with others. This journey has deepened my understanding of myself, strengthened my voice and created meaningful connections with readers.

Writing is a sacred practice & journey of discovery, connection and expression. We all have stories worth sharing and voices that deserve to be heard. Each post, like each word we speak or write, has the potential to touch lives. You never know who might need to hear it—or how much it might heal you in the process.

Becoming a Keynote Speaker: Becoming a keynote speaker was a transformative milestone that taught me the power of voice, vulnerability and authenticity. Standing on stage to share my story was both thrilling and nerve-wracking, yet it opened the door to deep connections and meaningful exchanges with others. Each opportunity to speak reminds me of the impact of sharing our truths, the beauty of human connection and the courage it takes to be fully seen and heard. It has been a journey of growth, empowerment, and discovering the incredible ripple effect of words shared from the heart.

Professional achievements can align with passion and purpose, creating a meaningful impact.

Volunteering at St. Christopher’s Orphanage in Fiji: A profound and heartwarming experiences of my life was volunteering at St. Christophers Orphanage in Fiji in 2005, while I was in Year 10. An opportunity to connect deeply with the children, share laughter and experience the true spirit of giving. From placing mosquito nets on their windows to building vegetable gardens, every moment was a reminder of the power of kindness and presence. This experience taught me the beauty of giving without expectation and the importance of empathy in building meaningful connections. Each moment shaped my understanding of gratitude, compassion, and the value of community.

Compassion and connection can profoundly transform both giver and receiver.

Volunteering with the Special Olympics: Volunteering on numerous occasions with the Special Olympics’ Opening Eyes program was a rewarding and humbling experience, filling me with a deep sense of joy, connection and purpose. Being part of the Opening Ceremony for the Asia-Pacific Games in 2013 was especially moving—a powerful moment of pride, unity, and a celebration of inclusivity. Through these experiences, I witnessed the strength, determination, and joy of athletes who face unique challenges, and I learned how love, kindness, and support can transform lives. These moments taught me about resilience, the beauty of diversity, and the profound impact of creating a world that embraces everyone.

Witnessing the strength and determination of those competing taught me about resilience and the power of inclusion.

Surf Life Saving Bronze Medallion: Completing my Surf Life Saving Bronze Medallion in 2012 was a blend of challenge and reward, pushing my physical and mental limits. The experience connected me to the ocean and reminded me of my own strength. In this same year I also received the Merewether Surf Club Presidents Award. 

An achievement that pushed my physical and mental limits while connecting deeply with the ocean.

Running Half-marathons (5km, 10km and 20km): Training for and completing half-marathons has been a journey of endurance, discipline and self-discovery. Each race tested my physical and mental limits, teaching me the power of persistence and the importance of showing up for myself. Rather thqan just crossing finish lines, these milestones were about celebrating the strength I didn’t always know I had and embracing the value of self-care along the way. Running has become a metaphor for life—a reminder of resilience, the power of setting goals, and the capacity of the human body and spirit to move forward, especially when the path feels challenging.

Each race became a metaphor for life, teaching resilience, persistence and the power of self-care.

Boudoir Photoshoot: As a Christmas gift to myself in 2020, I crossed off a long-standing item on my list: a boudoir photoshoot. This experience was more that just a photoshoot; it was a journey in self-love, vulnerability and celebration. Stepping in front of the camera, allowing myself to be fully seen, while feeling beautiful, empowered and enough, was transformative. This experience reminded me of the power of embracing our bodies, our sensuality, and our inner confidence. I will be sharing more about this next week, but for now, I will say it was a moment of pure liberation.

Finding true beauty help us grow stronger, more confident and more connected to ourselves.

Dancing in the Rain: Sometimes, the simplest, unplanned moments bring the most joy. Dancing in the rain is a symbolic reminder for me to let go, embrace the unpredictability of life, and celebrate the wild spirit within, finding joy in the little things.

Dancing in the rain is a celebration of the unpredictability of life and the wild, joyful spirit that lives within us all. Next time it rains, consider stepping outside and letting yourself dance. You might just rediscover the magic of simplicity and the power of letting go.

Propagating a Rose and Watching It Bloom: Gardening has always been a grounding and meaningful practice for me and watching a rose bloom from a small cutting was a profoundly moving experience. Each stage of its growth, from tender roots to vibrant petals, felt like a reflection of life’s beauty and the rewards of patience and care. Seeing it blossom reminded me of the power of nurturing and the magic that unfolds when the right environment is created. The delicate transformation of the rose was a reminder that growth is a process—one that requires time, love, and attention—and that the beauty of blooming is always worth the wait.

The delicate transformation of a rose is a poignant reminder that growth is a journey—one that requires time, love and unwavering attention. In a world that often values quick results, the rose teaches us to honour the process, knowing that the beauty of blooming is always worth the wait. The magic of growth is always unfolding, and the bloom, when it comes, will be even more radiant for the journey it took to get there.

Stargazing: The Beauty of a Night Sky: Stargazing is a humbling and awe-inspiring ritual, offering quiet moments of reflection under a vast, star-filled sky. Each gaze upward fills me with wonder, peace, and a sense of connection to something greater. The stars remind me of how small yet significant we are, balancing the mystery of the universe with the limitless possibilities of life. A sacred practice that grounds me while opening my heart to the beauty and wonder beyond.

 Stargazing is a practice of grounding, dreaming, and connecting to the wonder that exists within and beyond us. It teaches finding beauty in the unknown, peace in stillness, and courage in possibility that stretches as far as the stars. Under a starry sky, pause—let the vastness inspire you, the stillness ground you and the stars remind you of the limitless potential of life.

Witnessing a Sunrise and Sunset in Magical Places: Watching the sun rise and set in different corners of the world is a profoundly humbling and awe-inspiring experience. Whether it’s on a serene beach, atop a towering mountain, or amidst the bustle of a city, these moments serve as gentle reminders of life’s rhythm and the continuity of nature. Each sunrise speaks of new beginnings, while each sunset reflects the beauty of closure, grounding me in a sense of timelessness and peace. These simple yet powerful events connect me to something greater, reminding me of the cyclical beauty of life.

The simple act of watching the sun rise and set is a sacred practice in mindfulness and connection. Next time you witness the sun rise or set, pause. Let its beauty fill your heart, its rhythm remind you of the flow of life, and its light inspire you to embrace the magic of every moment.

Swimming in the Ocean: There’s something uniquely freeing about swimming in the ocean, feeling the waves move around you, and immersing yourself in nature’s embrace. Every time I swim in the sea, I feel a sense of renewal, as if the water washes away stress and fills me with energy. These moments remind me of the power of nature to heal, rejuvenate, and reconnect us to the present moment.

The true magic of life often lies in the simple, unplanned experiences that ground us in the present.

Swimming with Dolphins in the Wild: Swimming with dolphins in their natural habitat was a surreal and magical experience, like stepping into another world. Their playful energy and contagious joy filled the water with a sense of freedom and harmony that was both humbling and magical. Sharing this moment with such intelligent creatures reminded me of the interconnectedness of all life and the beauty that unfolds when we embrace the wonders of the natural world. It was a powerful reminder of the magic that exists when we connect with nature in its purest form.

Swimming with dolphins is a transformative experience that reconnects us to the magic of the natural world. It teaches us to embrace joy, honour our connection to all living beings, and find harmony in the rhythms of life. 

Visiting a Butterfly Sanctuary: Walking through a butterfly sanctuary felt like stepping into a world of delicate beauty and transformation. Surrounded by these winged symbols of growth and change, I was filled with a sense of peace and wonder. Feeling butterflies gracefully land on me was almost magical, a gentle reminder of the cycles of life and the beauty of embracing each stage of our journey. Each visit to a sanctuary becomes a meditation on resilience, growth, and the quiet magic of evolving into something new.

If you find yourself in a moment of transition or challenge, think of the butterfly. Trust the process, embrace each stage and know that your wings will one day take flight in ways you never imagined.

Holding a Burmese Python: There is something both thrilling and calming about holding a creature like a Burmese python. This was a “face your fears” moment for me—a chance to step outside my comfort zone and connect with the wildness of nature. Feeling the power and grace of the snake taught me about respect for all life and reminded me of the beauty that comes from embracing things that might initially seem intimidating. It was a moment of courage and connection, where I felt both strong and vulnerable.

 Holding a Burmese python was a moment of courage, connection and respect for the wild, teaching that beauty and growth lies beyond our comfort zones. When faced with fear or something that feels a little intimidating, approach with curiosity and an open heart—unexpected beauty and strength await.

Competing in a Dragon Boat Regatta: Joining a Dragon boat regatta was an exhilarating experience of temwork, adrenaline, and the rhythmic synchronicity of paddling. Competing and pushing ourselves to the limit was exhilarating,  highlighting the strength of collective effort. It was a moment of resilience, camaraderie, and accomplishment that left me feeling both strong and connected.

Unique adventures awaken our sense of wonder and connection to the world.

Learning the Clarinet: Taking up the clarinet opened my world to the joy of music and creativity. Learning to read music, mastering notes, and feeling the resonance of each sound was a journey of patience and discipline, and it reminded me of the beauty of expressing oneself in different forms. The clarinet became more than an instrument; it was a pathway to creativity, mindfulness, and the joy of creating beauty through sound.

Taking up the clarinet taught me that music is about more than sound; it is about connection, growth and the joy of bringing something beautiful into the world. If you have ever considered learning an instrument or exploring a new form of creativity, I lovingly encourage you to take the leap. You might just discover a new way to express yourself and a deeper connection to the rhythms of life.

Attending Incredible Concerts: Live music has always been a source of inspiration and pure joy, and I’ve been fortunate to attend concerts by artists like Joan Armatrading, Beyoncé, Amber Lawrence, Christie Lamb, Elton John, Chris Isaac, George, Robbie Williams, Missy Higgins, Gretchen Wilson, Carole King, James Taylor and many more. Each performance was a memory wrapped in music, filled with energy, connection, and collective bliss. Being part of a crowd, singing along, and feeling the beat created moments of unity and reminded me of the power of art to bring people together. Some concerts, like Beyoncé and Elton John, were life-changing, leaving an energy and inspiration that lingered long after the final note. These experiences celebrate the passion, creativity, and joy that come from fully embracing the moment.

Live music is a celebration of connection, passion and the joy of shared experiences. A powerful reminder of the ability art holds to unite us, inspire us and create moments of pure magic. Let the energy of the crowd lift you and embrace the joy of being part of something greater than yourself.

Taking a Pottery Class: Choosing to attend pottery classes was a grounding and creative experience that revealed the beauty that can emerge from a simple lump of clay. There’s something deeply meditative and therapeutic about shaping clay, requiring patience, presence, and a willingness to embrace imperfection. Watching it transform into something meaningful brought a sense of calm and accomplishment, reminding me of the joy of creating with my own hands. Pottery taught me to slow down, appreciate the process, and see the potential for beauty and transformation in even the simplest beginnings.

Pottery taught me to slow down, embrace imperfection and find beauty in the process. If you have ever considered trying pottery or any creative art, I encourage you to give it a go. You might discover the joy of creating a deeper connection to yourself and the transformative power of working with your hands.

Reliving Magic with Disney on Ice: Each time I attend Disney on Ice, I am swept away by the sight of beloved characters gracefully gliding across the ice, bringing timeless stories to life in the most magical way. Hearing familiar songs and watching iconic moments unfold is a nostalgic journey that reconnects me to the wonder of childhood. Being surrounded by joy and excitement in a world of imagination is a reminder of the beauty of storytelling, the magic of beloved characters and the importance of holding onto wonder, no matter our age.

Life is a symphony of experiences, reminding us to create and celebrate.

Each of these essential experiences, holds a unique place in my journey, a piece of my heart that shapes, teaches and guides me toward a more vibrant life. They are more than just memories; they are the chapters that define my story—the moments that remind me of the beauty, adventure and meaning in this one wild, wonderful and precious life. These essential experiences deepen my compassion and connect me to the world in profound ways, reminding me of the complexity and resilience of life and of the importance of embracing each moment with an open heart and an adventurous spirit.

Life is a journey of collecting these moments, each one adding a layer to the story of who we are. May we continue to seek out, cherish, and be shaped by these beautiful, life-defining experiences, living each day as an unfolding story that makes us feel alive, connected, and deeply present.

There are still plenty of Essential Experiences yet to come, dreams waiting to unfold and desires left to explore. An essential experiences list is as alive and evolving as we are.

Here are some of the dreams I am still nurturing, the adventures I feel called to pursue, and the desires that I know will occur with these essential expereinces:

Write a Book: This is a project I am often asked about, and is one that I feel deeply connected to. It's a project I’m often asked about and one that feels deeply aligned with my purpose. Sharing my journey, my insights, my heart and my passion for wellness and self-love is something I look forward to manifesting in the future as a source of inspiration for others.

Desire: To capture my journey in words, celebrating the unique path of life while inspiring others to honour and share their own stories.

Marvel over a Total Solar Eclipse: The celestial dance of the sun and moon during a total solar eclipse is a cosmic marvel that stirs my soul. Witnessing this awe-inspiring phenomenon would be a profound reminder of the universe's intricate beauty.

Desire: To stand in the shadow of the moon, marveling at the cosmic connection between Earth and the heavens and the universe.

Witness the Northern Lights: The Northern Lights, with their ethereal hues of green and purple, feel like a magical gift from the universe. Standing under this celestial display would be a moment of pure wonder, connecting deeply with the magic of nature.

Desire: To be captivated by the natural beauty of auroras, standing in awe under the dancing lights of the sky, feeling the magic of the light show and conencting with the wonder of the universe.

See Gorillas in their Natural Habitat: Witnessing gorillas in their natural environment is a dream that connects me to the beauty of the earth, the beauty of wildlife and the importance of wildlife conservation. Observing their majestic presence would be a humbling reminder of our shared connection with all living beings.

Desire: To stand in awe of these incredible creatures, feeling the deep bond between humanity and the natural world.

Explore Egypt: Egypt has always held a mystical allure—land of the pyramids, the Sphinx and ancient temples carved with stories of gods and goddesses. To stand at the foot of the Great Pyramid, explore the temples of Luxor, cruise along the Nile, and feel the sands of history beneath me would be a dream come true. Egypt is a journey not just of exploration, but of wonder, discovery, and reverence for the magic of ancient civilizations.

Desire: To wander through Egypt’s timeless sands, embracing the wonder of its ancient stories and marveling at the ingenuity of the past.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: Floating gently above the world in a hot air balloon feels whimsical and freeing. The perspective from above offers a reminder to embrace ease, seek new viewpoints and revel in the breathtaking beauty of life. This dream is a reminder to seek new perspectives, to float with ease, and to embrace the beauty of life from above.

Desire: To float peacefully above breathtaking landscapes, soaking in the sense of freedom and wonder that comes with seeing the world from a bird’s-eye view.

Watch the Great Wildebeest Migraration in Africa: Witnessing millions of wildebeest, zebras, and antelope migrate across the Serengeti is one of nature’s most incredible spectacles—a true testament to resilience and survival.

Desire: To stand in awe of the natural rhythms of life, feeling connected to the untamed beauty of the wild.

Swim in Bioluminsescent Waters: Swimming in waters that glow with bioluminescent organisms is a magical experience that feels like diving into a sea of stars.

Desire: To move through glowing waves, marveling at the natural wonder of the universe’s hidden lights.

Visit the Cherry Blossoms in Japan: Standing beneath a canopy of delicate pink cherry blossoms during hanami (flower viewing) season is a dream that celebrates the fleeting beauty of life and the ability of nature to inspire renewal.

Desire: To immerse myself in the tranquility of spring’s fleeting blossoms, finding peace and inspiration in the cycles of nature.

Trek the Inca Trail: Hiking the ancient paths of the Inca Trail feels like a call to adventure and a journey into history. Walking these sacred paths while feeling the echoes of history beneath my feet, and reaching the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu calls to my adventurous spirit.

Desire: To follow the echoes of history beneath my feet, experiencing the wonder of ancient civilisations while connecting deeply with the world.

Float in the Dead Sea: The unique buoyancy and healing properties of The Deas Sea offer an unparalleled sensory experience. Floating effortlessly would be a reminder of surrender and the restorative power of nature.

Desire: To let go and float, feeling held and rejuvenated by the Earth’s ancient waters.

Each of these dreams reminds me of the infinite possibilities life offers. They are invitations to step boldly into the world, nurture curiosity, and savor the profound beauty of human connection with nature, history, and self-discovery.

I invite you to curate your own Essential Experiences List if you havnt already done so.

Life isn’t measured by a checklist or by accomplishments; it’s defined by the richness of our experiences, the beauty of our connections, and the wonder we find in our everyday lives. Whether you call it a bucket list, a dare diary, or an essential experiences list, let it be a reflection of your soul—a living document of dreams that evolve with you, of adventures that call to you, and of experiences that make you feel truly alive.

Ask yourself: What makes my heart beat faster? What have I always wanted to see, feel, taste, or discover? What experiences would make me feel like I’ve lived fully and deeply? Let these questions guide you as you create your own list. Fill it with dreams big and small, moments of adventure, and quiet experiences of connection and growth.

An essential experiences list is about more than just ticking boxes—it’s a reminder to savour the journey, to embrace the highs and lows of life, and to see each day as an opportunity for discovery. Whether it’s visiting a far-off land, trying something new or simply dancing in the rain, every single essential experience on your list is an invitation to show up fully, to live authentically, and to connect deeply with yourself and with the world.

Let this list be a love letter to yourself, a reminder to embrace adventure, curiosity, and the wild beauty of life.

Dream boldly.

Live courageously.

Remember that the journey itself is the greatest gift of all.

Open your heart to the essential experiences that await us—the ones that bring joy, wonder, love, inspiration, empowerment and growth. May we fill our lives with moments that make our souls sing, that connect us to the world in profound ways, and that remind us of the incredible adventure that life truly is.

Life is a tapestry woven with these moments—experiences that invite us to grow, reflect, celebrate and connect. Be sure to continue to seek out and cherish life-shaping moments, knowing that each one adds depth, purpose and joy to the story we are creating.