"Climbing up that hill, and taking that time was like hitting snooze on the alarm"
A bladesmith and former chef heads to the mountains to relax and recharge
Tell us a bit about yourself?
I'm Hayden Scott, grew up in a small town in South Otago, I am a full-time Bladesmith, making hand forged culinary knives, a recent departure from 25 year career as a chef. I love making things, and solving problems, so I have been creating all my life. I love getting outdoors with my family, disconnecting from the world, and reconnecting with the people that matter to me. My idea of fun is lighting a fire, cooking some food and hanging with my friends and family.
How did you get into cooking?
I grew up cooking. My mother worked nights, so I was always helping prepare dinner for the family. My father didn't know how to cook that well, so it became my responsibility. As I got older, I saw cooking as a career path that was a ticket out of my small town, and across the world. There was something super enjoyable about making something from nothing, and feeding people has always brought me joy.
The hospo world can be pretty high stress and long hours, have you ever felt burnt out by it?
The hospitality industry can certainly be stressful, and the long hours are a badge of honour for some. That was fun in my youth, but as your priorities change in life, the stress and friction seem to increase as you feel pulled in many directions. Having healthy boundaries, a supportive team culture, and making time for things that matter to you are great things to keep that work/life balance, keeping hospitality a fun and rewarding career.
You recently went out to our Whetu cabin in Raglan, where was your head at before you left?
My head was racing with a new chapter ahead of me, my body and nervous system is unravelling from my former career as a chef. I find it hard to relax and be present. My thoughts are always moving forward to what has to happen next.
Climbing up that hill, and taking that time was like hitting snooze on the alarm.
How did you feel when you got back?
Slowing down, noticing what's happening in my environment, listening to my thoughts really gets me fired up to create. I left the top of the hill inspired, and focused on what I was trying to achieve in my life.
What was the highlight of your experience?
I had forgotten how restorative nature is for me. To walk in the bush and notice the dead trees and the new growth. To watch the storm pass by from the comfort of bed. To feel the heat from the fire...the highlight was reconnecting with that part of me that feels alive in nature. My chaotic mind was silenced for a moment. It was a healthy reminder to do the things that make you feel connected to yourself far more often.
What would you say to someone thinking of getting Unyoked?
I would encourage everyone to take some time for themselves, to sit with their thoughts, daydream a little and leave the distractions of routine behind.