Book + Beverage — Summer 2024
THE BOOK
endurance: EXTREME SURVIVAL IN THE COLORADO ROCKY MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS
BY KELLY ASHFORD
Kelly Ashford’s story is one of resilience, survival and the indomitable human spirit. A 14th generation Colorado native, Ashford’s love for the outdoors runs deep. As an energy healer for the past 15 years, she understands the earth’s profound healing power and the importance of spiritual practices like meditation. However, her life took a dramatic turn when a simple excursion turned into a fight for survival in the unforgiving Rocky Mountain wilderness. Despite facing dehydration, starvation and the threat of frostbite, Ashford says her unwavering faith and determination kept her alive. Now, with her new book, the Grand Junction local shares her journey of survival, shedding light on the importance of preparedness and the splendor of the human spirit.
“After many years of convalescence and recovery from trauma, I was finally able to put my story into words and share my ordeal and the near-death experience that I had,” Ashford says, who self-published her book this year with the guidance of her editor, Dr. Judith Briles. “I found the writing process healing, bringing me a sense of closure. A saying I like is, ‘when life hands you lemons, throw a book at it.’”
Ashford’s ordeal began innocently enough, with plans for a few hours of meditation in the mountains. Little did she know a series of unfortunate events would lead to her car careening into a ditch, leaving her stranded and ill-prepared for the challenges that lay ahead. With no means of communication and dressed in nothing more than a light jacket, shorts and flip-flop sandals, she found herself facing the harsh realities of nature.
Yet, fueled by her energy healing practices and an unwavering will to see her family again, Ashford says she clung to life against all adversity.
Endurance serves as a beacon of hope for others facing their own trials and tribulations. Through her writing, Ashford shares not only the physical challenges she endured but also the profound spiritual awakening that emerged from her near-death experience.
THE BEVERAGE
RAPID HYDRATION
Hailing from Durango, Tailwind Nutrition has introduced its latest offering: Rapid Hydration, a natural electrolyte drink mix designed for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a cleaner, lighter alternative to overly sweet drinks. Personally, we’d call this beverage “survival nourishment,” if we could, for how seamlessly it refuels on-the-go.
Available in flavors like orange, strawberry lemonade and berry, Rapid Hydration boasts a refreshing taste without the aftertaste of artificial sweeteners. Packaged conveniently in individual sachets, it’s optimized for use in 18- 24 ounces of water, providing a quick and clear solution to replenish electrolytes lost through sweat after a day of exploring.
Unlike traditional sports drinks, Rapid Hydration uses natural cane sugar and is glutenfree, catering to those with dietary restrictions. Ideal for everyday hydration, short workouts or even recovery post-exercise, it’s a versatile solution for staying hydrated and maintaining peak performance even in the most adverse conditions.