Walking has always been something I have been in the habit of doing. It is so good for my mind, body and soul. I love it.

These photos were taken on my walk this morning.  If that’s not enough to inspire you, here are some other reasons I love to walk.

Exercise. Well we all know we have to do some sort of exercise, right? The body was designed to move and mine feels better when I do. I think walking is the best exercise there is. You don’t need any special equipment, it’s free, it’s easy and you just head out your front door and there you are… walking!

Meditation. Walking is a great moving meditation. Sometimes I will focus on my breath, or repeat a mantra or affirmation to stop my mind from wandering while I am walking.

Communing with nature.  Negative ions abound at the beach, mountains, waterfalls, parks and without a doubt, they make me feel so good. I try to get out into nature as often as I can.  Megan at Your Intuitive Family also talks about us needing grounding or connecting with Mother Earth.

Social connection. Most times when I walk, I take the dog (I have a long-haired dachshund called Wilbur). I am always being stopped and chatted to – mostly because of the cute dog! It’s so lovely to pass the time of day with people, say hello, smile or wave. It gets me out in my community, connecting with local people.

Fresh air.  Being stuck inside all day around electronics can really zap my energy and give me a fuzzy brain. There is nothing like having some fresh air to revive and recharge me. If I come home from work feeling tired, I will head out for a walk. All that oxygen zinging around my body peps me up!

Endorphins.  Nature’s prozac! Regular walking has been proven to be effective against anxiety and depression. I know it keeps my mental health on the right track if I walk regularly. Happy mum = happy family.

Small things. Walking gives me time to appreciate and be grateful for the small things. Warm sunshine on my back, a mother duck with her ducklings, beautiful flowers, a refreshing breeze. Stopping to smell the roses is so good for my soul and it makes me happy.

Vitamin D. Getting outside in the sun helps top up my Vitamin D levels. It’s really important for me, because I suffer from a deficiency. Read the blog post I did about that here.

Bonding. Sometimes I walk with a friend or family member. It is such a great way to chat without distractions or interruptions (I never take my phone!) I find ‘walking chats’ particularly useful in opening up the communication with my teenage son.

I love walking! For me, walking is not exercise to dread doing, it’s a chance to take time out and practice some self care.

Talk to me. Do you like to walk? Why do you like to walk? Where do you walk?