At the library: The simple act of walking every day

Back in March of 2020 when the pandemic started becoming more real to everybody and life seemed so uncertain, I decided to start the challenge of walking every day in order to get out of the house and to get some exercise.

It seemed like a very simple challenge, and it was. However, it proved to me that walking is more than just exercise. A simple walk can really improve your mindset.

I've never been a fan of using exercise solely for weight loss. It seems like that kind of mindset ruins people's perception of just how varied the benefits of exercise can be. I believe exercise is less about losing the pounds and burning calories, and more about simply getting your mind off the realities of life. In March, everything seemed so uncertain, and walking helped me to process the realities I was facing.

I never realized that going on a walk each day could improve my mental health. But as I kept walking, I realized it was always the highlight of my day. You see, walking became more than just exercise to me because my walks allowed my mind to focus on a simple task rather than letting it run a million miles while watching the news.

When I put on my walking shoes each day and go outside, it's amazing to feel the wind in my hair and the sunshine on my skin. I've started to realize that life is beautiful and that it's so easy to forget this simple fact. Walking has become one thing that helps me to feel like I'm doing something when sometimes I can't really do anything.

This month at the library, we presented you with a fitness challenge. So, I present you with this simple task: walk. Even ten minutes of getting outside can change your perspective on life. Walking is a solace in a never-ending spiral of uncertainty. Don't think of walking as something to cross off your to-do list. Be present and be thankful that you live in such a beautiful world.

Before 2020, I forgot how simple life could be. Sometimes it takes something dramatic to happen for you to wake up and realize that you are so lucky to be alive. I implore you to start small and don't rush your way through a walk. Walking everyday helped me, and I know it will help you too! Don't be focused on the steps, be focused on your surroundings and the chirping birds and the calming breeze that surrounds you. Focus on the sun that filters through the clouds even on a cool winter day. You won't regret the simple act of a simple walk, I promise.