As someone who has hiked over 26,000 miles over the course of 11 years, I can attest to the transformative power of walking. Walking, for me, is not just a physical act but a spiritual one. It’s a way to connect with nature, to challenge myself, and to find peace within myself.
Walking is a form of meditation for me. It allows me to be fully present in the moment and to focus my thoughts on the here and now. When I’m walking, I’m not thinking about the past or worrying about the future. I’m simply walking, breathing, and taking in the world around me.
One of the things I love most about walking is the sense of freedom it gives me. When I’m walking, I’m not tied to a schedule or a destination. I can go wherever my feet take me and explore the world at my own pace. There’s something incredibly liberating about that.
Walking also teaches me about perseverance and resilience. When you’re hiking long distances, you’re bound to encounter obstacles and challenges along the way. Whether it’s a steep mountain or a blister on your foot, you have to find a way to push through the pain and keep going. That kind of resilience is not only valuable on the trail, but in all aspects of life.
Perhaps most importantly, walking reminds me of our connection to the natural world. When we’re surrounded by concrete and screens, it’s easy to forget that we’re a part of something bigger than ourselves. But when we’re out in nature, we’re reminded of our place in the world and the power and beauty of the natural world.
In short, walking is so much more than just a way to get from point A to point B. It’s a way to connect with ourselves, with others, and with the world around us. It’s a way to find peace, to challenge ourselves, and to grow as individuals. So the next time you have the opportunity to take a walk, I encourage you to take it. You might be surprised by the transformative power it holds.
Libby DeLana is an award-winning executive creative director, designer/art director by trade, who has spent her career in the ad world. Click here to get your copy of Libby’s first published book, Do Walk. You can connect with Libby on Instagram @thismorningwalk and @parkhere.