6 things to do when you are out for a walk.

[Roandro]

I'm an ex-runner who is now walking at least until the cooler weather gets here. I'm gradually acclimatizing myself to my new exercise and I'm finding that it can have some positive attributes that running never had - for example:

1.) You can be a friendly face to other walkers - it makes the trip more interesting as you are checking for people coming along the trail and you feel like a good person afterwards - you made the world a nicer place!

2.) Do a walking meditation. Just say a quick phrase or prayer over and over. It can have a calming affect and occupy your mind at the same time.

3.) Clean up debris along the trail. Today I picked up five 6-pack rings and carried them to garbage bins. I, also, pick up other environmental "no-no's" like bottles and fishing line that animals can get entwined in.

4.) Do a thankfulness prayer - every few steps name something or someone you are thankful for. If you are doing several miles - that's a lot of thanks!

5.) Think about your life. Its a great time to analyze things, plan, mull things over - make some decisions.

6.) Just look around and enjoy Mother Nature - great and small. I walk on a trail along Lake Michigan and when I ran I never even looked at it I was so busy watching my footing so I didn't fall into or over something (weak ankles.) Now I take time to watch the golfers, the sailboats, the fishermen or just stare out at the lake.
There are no endorphens when its over but walking is enjoyable, just in a more subtle way.

[MiLynn]

Great points! I have never been a runner (bad knees) but I really do enjoy walking when I'm able. I'm a people watcher too, so the more people around, the better. :)

[Claredale]

What a good thing to post. I walk with a dear friend (not as much as I used to but it's just been so hot lately) but we always call our walking prayer walking. We both have our prayer requests and mention people by name. It has really been a blessing for both of us when we actually hear each of us praying for each other.

Our church has a recreation complex with a nice walking trail. We both take our dogs so we walk the opposite direction. Our dogs think everyone is there to visit with them, plus we were able to see everyone too.

I always use my time working in the yard as a time to sing and reflect on things. I promise that is the only time that I will sing out loud!

[Roandro]

Thanks! I'd love to have a good pal to walk with.

My husband, Tom, still runs so he is way the heck ahead of me down the path.

When we ran together we would give each other a jumping "high five" at the end - I miss that!

[anewday]

I take my puppy with me :) He gets so much enjoyment out of walking. Sometimes my 6 year old daughter comes along as well.

[vm]

AWESOME! I walk our youngest dog about 3-4 miles most days. (Because he is CRAZY!!! :loco:) I love to think and talk to God as I walk. And I REALLY love it when I can walk in nature along wooded trails. So serene and removed. It's definitely meditative.

Great topic! :)

[Roandro]

Unfortunately, my little dude is only 8 lbs and snow white. He already goes to the groomer more than I do (!) and he has a real strong antagonism towards other dogs - its actually quite a problem - so I can't bring him lest he get into a fight or something!

[Vegasgirl]

You are so right...during my period of IC freedom (reacurring after 4 years :() I started walking to lose weight. After 8 months later, I was 61 pounds lighter and had a sense of calm. I use my walks to clear my head, create positive thoughts and become a happier person for many of the reasons you suggested...Great post!