“I just can’t stay inside all day, I gotta get out, get me some of those rays.” These words often bounce around my brain like the cheery melody of “Sunshine Day” (sung by the Brady Bunch). When I’m walking, sometimes I find myself being able to think creatively or find I’m just in a better mood and have more energy.
I often go for walks in the park or hike nearby trails on weekends. One of my favorite finds this year was a meditation trail. My customary outdoor walk became a richer experience by:
Pausing at each sign to be “in the moment.”
Listening to the soothing sound of the bubbling brook.
Absorbing the sights, sounds and smells of nature alone.
Taking a moment during my walk to sit and savor the moment.
Looking up to the sky for a new perspective.
There’s a fair amount of research that talks about what we gain when we spend time in nature (see our earlier post, “Back to Nature, Get Outside!”). One Scottish study suggests that you can ease brain fatigue simply by strolling through a leafy park. According to the lead researcher, “Natural environments still engage” the brain, but the attention demanded “is effortless.” The psychological term is called, “involuntary attention.” This allows the body to focus its attention inward.
The next time you take a walk outside, I encourage you to connect your mind and body. Find an outdoor trail near you or map out a path through your favorite green space. Then take a meditative stroll.
