Step Away from Noise: Nature Walks for Inner Peace
The mental health benefits of walking are well-documented. One of the best things to do if you feel stressed, is simply to go for a walk. And even better, a walk in nature. Also read the post on how to become a volunteer dog walker.
… I withdraw, you see. I withdraw from the campaigning and the marching, I withdraw from the arguing and the talked-up necessity and all of the false assumptions. I withdraw from the words. I am leaving. I am going to go out walking. Paul Kingsnorth
Walking can help you stop your thoughts, and just focus on putting one foot in front of the other. If you walk in nature, you are helped along by the rustle of trees and the sound of birdsong. You don’t need to travel far. And you need no expensive fitness clothing.
Anxiety is a huge mental health issue these days. Now we’ve lost our ‘fight or flight’ lifestyle, often the pent-up energy has nowhere to go, and we are left feeling on edge. From mild anxiety to generalised anxiety disorder (carrying around a big bag of worries that never seems to get lighter, and feeling anxious over the smallest things).
Some people get panic disorder (feeling in danger, but there’s nothing to run from). And social anxiety disorder (a fear of being in social situations). That’s fine. But don’t stay home. Walk!
If out walking, always follow the Countryside Code to keep dogs, barnyard friends and wildlife safe. Keep dogs away from steep banks, mushrooms, toxic flowers and trees. At the coast, read how to keep dogs safe by the seaside.
Overcoming barriers to walking
Walking is a simple, yet powerful way to boost your mental health. But, let’s face it: life throws up hurdles sometimes. How can you make walking a regular part of your routine despite these challenges? Here are some common barriers and practical tips to overcome them.
- Rainy Days: Gear up with a waterproof jacket and shoes. Embrace the fresh, earthy scent of rain and enjoy the sound of raindrops as you walk.
- Cold Weather: Layer up! Start with thermal wear and cover it with a windbreaker. Cold air can invigorate you, making each breath feel like a fresh start.
- Windy Conditions: Choose a route with natural windbreaks like trees or buildings.
- Safe locations. Aim for familiar paths like urban parks or suburban trails.
- Sunny Days: Wear light clothing, a hat, and don’t forget sunscreen. Walk early in the morning or later in the evening to escape the heat.
Most sunscreens contain zinc oxide which is toxic to pets. So never use human sunscreen on animal friends, and wash off your skin before letting pets kiss you! Same for cosmetics and deodorants.
Walking helps you live in the present
If you have a grasshopper mind that won’t stop chattering or worrying, then walking is one of the best ways to turn off the noise. Just focus on putting one foot in front of the other.
You can start simply by noticing your surroundings, whether it’s the birds singing in the trees, or the smells of the trees in a park. Get your senses involved to bring yourself back to the present.
Accept your feelings. If you are very stressed, angry or unhappy, don’t deny them. Just walk through them. And hopefully reach the other side, to let those feelings come and go. Most of the time, they are just thoughts in your head, and don’t hold the power over you that you may think.
I have walked myself into my best thoughts, and I know of no thought so burdensome that one cannot walk away from it. Søren Kierkegaard
Time spent amongst trees, is never wasted time. Katrina Mayer
Poetry Break: Remember by Joy Harjo
Remember the sky that you were born under,
know each of the star’s stories.
Remember the moon, know who she is.
Remember the sun’s birth at dawn, that is the
strongest point of time. Remember sundown
and the giving away tonight.
Remember your birth, how your mother struggled
to give you form and breath. You are evidence of
her life, and her mother’s, and hers.
Remember your father. He is your life, also.
Remember the earth whose skin you are:
red earth, black earth, yellow earth, white earth
brown earth, we are earth.
Remember the plants, trees, animal life who all have their
tribes, their families, their histories, too. Talk to them,
listen to them. They are alive poems.
