The power of a simple walk
Strolling for Emotional & Mental Wellbeing
Emotions can feel overwhelming. Sometimes our nervous system gets dysregulated and it’s hard to cope with what’s around us. If you feel swamped, consider a simple, yet profoundly effective remedy: go for a walk. Think of walking not just a physical activity, but as a holistic practice that nurtures mind, body, and spirit.
Somatics, the study of the body in its wholeness, understands that our emotions are not just in our minds, but are experienced through our entire body and relate to our physiological responses. A furrowed brow, tightened shoulders, or a clenched jaw, are all physical manifestations of our internal emotional state. Walking initiates a cascade of positive physiological changes that counteract somatic symptoms of stress and distress.
With each step, your body is regulating into balance, it enters a rhythm, finds a soothing pattern that signals the brain to release endorphins, the natural mood elevators. These biochemicals act like a balm, calming the nervous system and reducing tension. The rhythmic motion facilitates a meditative state, allowing for reflective thoughts and often, a fresh perspective.
Engaging with the environment while walking — feeling the breeze, absorbing sunlight, touching the plants, feeling the soil — are also grounding. It brings us to the here and now. The sensory input draws our attention outward, it helps us feel our body in connection to the environment. It takes the focus away from mind ruminations and anxiety, and promotes a state of mindfulness.
The act of walking reacquaints us with our natural biomechanical states, loosening the grip of bodily contractions. Our breath deepens, our gaze lifts, and our body uncoils from the inward spiral of negative emotions. Walking, especially in a serene setting, fosters a sense of harmony and balance.
So the next time you're feeling down, remember that a walk is not just an action for your feet, but also a healing practice for your soul. Maybe our entire body expression is not just our body, but our soul moving. As we balance ourselves step by step, it’s easier to connect with what moves in us at a deeper level. That which moves as us.
