Walking is helpful.

I’ve incorporated walking into my exercise routine once or twice a week.  It makes a nice change from the gym.  And since I am still rehabbing an ankle injury and can’t run yet, it’s a good way to spend time outside.

I find I have some great ideas while walking.  There’s solid evidence, in fact, that walking is helpful cognitively.  And for myself, I’ve discovered that I feel better when I balance higher and lower intensity exercise.

And we shouldn’t underestimate the exercise value of walking.  I had a friend who I hadn’t seen for a few years.  When we met, he looked very fit, which of course I commented on, and he told me:  ‘I started walking.  That’s it—nothing else.  Walking.’

It’s a good habit to cultivate.  Alone or with friends and family.

I am grateful that near where we live, there are great nature paths, some through the woods, some through meadows, some by water.  But there are good places to walk in lots of places.  I love walking in the city, where there’s a lot going on, to see and notice. I grew up in the city and we walked everywhere, which was pretty cool.

What I most appreciate right now is that it’s peaceful and contemplative.  I am in a contemplative frame of mind right now and it’s a blessing to go out for a walk, change the scene, and find a few moments of peace.

-Chris