Take a Walk
Nov 14th, 2007 by Rahul Bhambhani
One month ago, on a random Sunday, I was sitting at my desk as usual writing an article for this site. That night I wasn’t thinking clearly, and words weren’t coming easily to me. I was feeling stressed out and frustrated by the situation. Somewhere in the midst of my frustration, I got up, threw on a sweater (yes, it gets cold here in
Prior to this random Sunday, I had never taken a walk before, and I never understood why people always recommended going for a walk. Essentially, I was acting on an impulse by deciding to take a walk. This turned out to be one of the greatest decisions I’ve made in my life. I’ve since found a place of refuge in nature that I can access simply by taking a walk anytime I’m feeling stressed out by the demands of every day life.
If you’ve never taken a walk, let me be the first to tell you that you’re missing out on something great. However, before you decide to go out and take a walk to find out for yourself what all the hype is about, take a few minutes to learn how to get the most out of your walks by reading the rest of this article.
Let it work for you
In order for your walks to be truly beneficial, you must allow the wonder of nature to work for you. What do I mean when I say this? I mean you must allow yourself to become fully absorbed in the present moment as you take your walk. Many people take walks, and then completely ignore the nature around them because they are so caught up with the thoughts running through their head. I’ll admit I was one of these people when I first started taking walks. On my first night, I figured I would go outside, think about what I needed to write about, and the walk will have served its purpose. Instead, I found this to be as frustrating and stressful as sitting in my room staring at the computer screen. I might as well have just stayed at home.
I soon discovered that the value of taking a walk lies in our ability to allow ourselves to become fully absorbed in the wonder of nature around us. While you’re walking, force yourself into the present moment by focusing on everything and anything in your environment. This is similar to meditation, but I find it to be easier because there are so many different objects you can focus your attention on. I personally love to listen to the trees rustle in the wind, and look up at the stars. I also love taking walks at night. There’s something about the dark that makes nature that much more enchanting. No matter what your personal preference, the important thing is to let yourself get lost in nature while you take your walks.
The benefits
I won’t go in depth with the specific benefits that can be attained by becoming a regular walker, because I believe that for each individual the benefits will be different. Some people may experience peace and serenity when they walk, while others may experience a feeling of invigoration. Walks may become your refuge from the stresses of daily life, or they could become your source of creative brilliance.
No matter what the specific benefits, taking a walk will help you become a more grateful individual. As you take notice of the beauty that surrounds you, you will develop a deeper appreciation for the gift of nature. Developing gratitude for nature is one of the best ways to make gratitude your permanent state of being.
The next step
The next time you’re feeling frustrated or stressed out, take a walk. While you’re on your walk, allow yourself to become fully absorbed in the present moment, and observe the grandeur of the nature that surrounds you. At first you may experience some difficulty ridding your mind of thought, but over time it will become easier to maintain your focus. And as you become more accustomed to this process, you will develop a deeper appreciation for the gift of nature. Continue down this path, and gratitude is sure to become your permanent state of being.
Have any additional tips, comments or suggestions? Please leave them in the comments section below. I’m interested in hearing what you have to say!
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I do some of my best thinking when I’m running. I don’t know what it is, but when I am on a stairmaster or elliptical machine I don’t have a clear mind like I do when I’m outside.
Mike,
I definitely agree that being outside is the best place you can be to clear your mind! Thanks for the comment
This is like one of those simple things that gets overlooked because it seems too simple.
I do it to some degree with my dogs. I used to stress about having to do it, but now I see it as a valuable thing to do for myself. Of course, it’s good for my dogs lol.
I might consider taking longer walks. I usually like to run 3 miles, but maybe walking is something I should also pickup.
Carl,
I don’t think it really matters what you do as long as you are fully present while you do it. Meaning you pay attention to all of the things in your environment, and have a clear head (no thoughts). Then you will reap the benefits of the walk (or whatever it is you’re doing).
Thanks for the comment!
Taking a walk is really a good thing to do to calm your mind.
It was nice of you to share your experience.
Love & Gratitude,
Tina
Think Simple. Be Decisive.
~ Clarity & Happiness
I can’t believe that you had never taken a walk before, it’s impossible.
Please explain.
Marie
Rahul, I think you will enjoy the link I have sent you from one of my posts.
Warmest wishes,
Myrna
An excellent reminder to clear out minds and invigorate our spirits with a much needed walk.
Thanks for the comment Damien!