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But I also love to walk. Last week I had yet another novel crisis/breakthrough (but at least this time finally seem to have got somewhere!) and the temptation to become a hermit and chain myself to the computer was so strong. All my life I have lived in extremes but I'm not 25 any more and it's exhausting me!
So since last week I've focused on establishing a routine where I simply get outside first thing in the morning, into the fresh air and get the blood pumping, the body moving and just do something. Luckily this has always been just before the rain has hit :)
On two mornings last week I chose to run but on the other mornings I've walked, simply because it was what I felt like. I took my iPod once, the other times I just went with only my keys in hand. It wasn't an endorphin orgy like running is but I still felt strong, the heart rate got raised a bit and it cleared my head. Just 20 minutes. Fresh air. Space. Perspective. I returned hungry and with renewed enthusiasm.
When we lived in the city and didn't have a car, we walked everywhere and I took it a little for granted. Walking was a practical way to get me where I needed to be but at times it could be a huge drag, especially in the colder weather. Now we have a car and drive to most places, but what it's done is help me fall in love with walking again, to look forward to walking somewhere instead of driving.
And getting outside first thing every morning.....it's such a tonic and sets me right up for the day! Whether I plan a run for later that day, or end up walking somewhere else, it's great to get the day started with some fresh air, a jolt to the senses.
Do you ever choose to walk instead of drive? When was the last time you did something purely for its own sake?
“Happy is the [wo]man who has acquired the love of walking for its own sake!”
- W.J. Holland (1848-1942), “Walking as a Fine Art,” in The Moth Book: A Guide to the Moths of North America. 1903.