The Camino de Santiago is a popular, centuries-old network of pilgrims' ways that lead to the shrine of the apostle James at Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in Galicia, Spain.

Neitsov said the idea to take on the famous journey came after talking with several friends who had done the pilgrimage themselves. At the time, she was navigating a particularly stressful period in her communications job at the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications.

"I had to make a lot of decisions each day," she recalled. "I felt like I needed time where I didn't have to make a single decision."

Friends described the Camino as a journey that "carries you along" and where your next steps are already laid out for you.

The ministry employee said the trip also offered a chance to step back from the weight of constant responsibility.

"I wanted confirmation that not everything is constantly mine to decide or carry," she said, adding that she was leaving things in part back up to the universe.

In all, Neitsov walked just under 300 kilometers, and said the experience helped her sort through thoughts that truly mattered while letting go of distractions. Some ideas and emotions she realized she'd need to keep working through afterward.

She also formed friendships with fellow pilgrims, many of whom she remains in touch with today.

An emotional end

The only disappointment came near the end of the route, when the final 100 kilometers became noticeably more crowded as hikers completed the minimum distance required to earn the official Compostela certificate.

Although some fellow pilgrims dropped out due to injuries or exhaustion, Neitsov said she never considered quitting. About two kilometers before reaching Santiago, she began crying instead.

"I felt so good on this journey; I was able to let go and simply be exactly who I am," Neitsov said, noting that it had been an incredibly emotional experience.

She added that she already plans to return to the Camino one day.

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