For years now, Jake and I go for long walks after work and on the weekends. When we first started it was because I was going through my “I NEED 15,000 STEPS A DAY” phase…I had just gotten a Fitbit and wanted to walk constantly. Anyway, I’ve been reflecting recently about how much these walks have mentally helped me. SO many life decisions have been made on these walks.
For example, walking down our favorite street in our home town, we made the decision to not move to NYC after I finished grad school (the original plan for years) and we moved to the southern part of Connecticut instead. Which, truthfully, was the best decision ever for us. But it required us to let go of a different picture of the future. Truthfully, I don’t think I would have been happy living in New York City again. It was great for college but having access to it, without actually living in it, is so much better for me. But it was on one of our long walks that Jake suggested that change in plans.
I think it’s the actual movement and change in scenery that helps me start to think things through, but it’s also walking with Jake obviously too. I don’t think it would have the effect if I were walking alone! It gives us a space that’s just for talking. When we don’t walk for a week and then get back to it, it’s like I can breathe again and think everything through. I think everyone has those meditative things, but they’re all a little different for everyone. Journaling gives me the same feeling, except it’s my moment to be reflective on my own.
What helps you to relax and reflect?
