For centuries thousands of people have undeniably and routinely walked barefoot over long beds of hot coals. This coal, or wood embers, can be hundreds of degrees, sometimes well over one thousand degrees Fahrenheit. An increasing number of people assert that under normal conditions this is an impossible feat. They further contend that only some mysterious power of the mind or some similar paranormal force could possibly prevent serious burns.

The seminar starts as an evening filled with questions, nervous laughter, self doubt, self realization and many more. Most of the thoughts are not discussed, this after all is not a psychotherapy session, it is an experience; an experience each person takes part in privately. There is only one shared emotion amongst the group, that is a feeling of fear, the rest is for private contemplation.

At one point during the evening the group is taken outside to light the fire. Matches are passed around and you set to work lighting the logs. For most, at that moment, fear creeps in. As you feel the heat rise from the logs and the smoke surge into the night, you appreciate what an enormous achievement this will be.

With the fire raging everyone is given the opportunity to express verbally why they are walking. The range of reasons is a constant amazement, some people simply come to prove it is possible, some come for a great pub story, some come to kick a habit like smoking or overeating, while some simple come along to support their friends / colleagues. Whatever the reason, everyone knows they are on the verge of a major achievement. Whatever answer you give at this stage will be unique, you will meet with people here for all kinds of different reasons, this is the variety that makes the event so exciting and varied.

After a high energy presentation from your instructor, some encouraging video presentations of other walks at other times, some practice over fake fire - yes, even the most reserved and timid people can be seen to stride confidently across the seminar room - after all this preparation, you will be standing before the fire.

You watch as the coals are spread onto the ground and taking your turn to rake them, you realise from energy and heat, how real this challenge is. They glow red, with small flames licking up at you. Fear demonstrates itself at this stage in many different ways some giggle, some sigh, some exclaim and some fake bravado.

No matter, it is time. And so, you find yourself staring down at the coals and accessing the energy and spirit that your Firewalk Instructor has taught you that evening.