Silence, Walking and Fitness: A Triple Threat for a Healthy Body and Mind
Life nowadays is go, go, go all the time, right? Whether it’s getting that workout in, squeezing in a podcast while cooking dinner, or constantly trying to catch the goss from your bestie’s love life. But imagine this – just you, yourself, and a silent walk. No distractions, just a peaceful stroll with your thoughts and the gentle thud-thud-thud of your feet hitting the ground. Let’s dive into why you should trade in that Spotify playlist for a silent walk, and why there’s more to it than just swinging your arms back and forth.
Long Walks and Silent Pride: A Tradition Rooted in Buddhism
Before you think we’re being someones who just discovered the ‘latest trend’ on TikTok, let’s give credit where it’s due. Silent walking is a centuries-old practice, rooted deep in Buddhism. Enlightened oldies like Buddhist teacher Thich Nhat Hanh believed that imparting peace into our everyday doings, including those strides, was simply the bee’s knees.
Buddhist thought school has long praised the walking meditation, asserting that it helps us become more attuned, mindful, grateful, and present. So, if you’re thinking about jumping on this bandwagon, know that it’s been rolling for centuries, with some pretty profound peeps leading the way.
The Hush-Hush Benefits: Psychologist Weighs In
Keep aside the hush-hush, psychology has something to say, too. Forget intense HIIT routines or grueling marathon training and think silent walks. Why? Let’s break it down:
Gives the Power of Focus and Attention
Silent walks carve out a space for you to channel your focus inward, undisturbed by the buzz of modern life—like that binge-watching spree you’re totally not thinking about right now. Paying attention to the sights, sounds, smells, and your body’s feelings can be a doorway to understanding yourself better.
An Emotional Self-Check-Up
Your to-do list is as long as a receipt from a bulk shopping trip, and it’s easy to forget to take care of numero uno—you! Taking a silent walk is like gifting yourself the ‘check engine’ warning light. Reflecting on how you’re feeling, the day’s events, or your worries can help you connect and understand yourself better.
Embraces Mother Nature’s Therapy
Who needs overpriced spa sessions when we’ve got Mother Nature’s therapy for free? A silent walk outdoors connects you with the natural world, known to boost happiness, reduce stress, and infuse a sense of purpose in our lives. And if your route includes water bodies, it’s a double whammy coz their rhythmic waves can further reduce stress levels classifying as the ‘blue space effect’.
The Beauty of Natural Rhythm
Your body literally dances to the beat of its own drum—its natural rhythm. Tuning into this rhythm, even subconsciously, can be orally soothing. So, ditch the headphones and let your thumping footsteps provide their rhythm.
Bridge to Daydreaming and Creativity
Ever been told daydreaming isn’t productive? False alarm! Silent walks can give your brain the downtime it needs, fostering creativity and divergent thinking. So, the next time you have an idle mind, turn it into a devil’s workshop of creative ideas during a silent walk.
Key Takeaways
- Silent walks are millennia-old practices, originating from Buddhist philosophies, that promote mindfulness, awareness, and presence.
- Engaging in silent walks can offer numerous psychological benefits, including improved attention, emotional introspection, increased connection with nature, embracing natural body rhythm, and fostering creativity.
- Facilitating a deeper connection with our inner self, silent walks can be an effective tool for self-care amidst our chaotic modern lives.
- Walking in silence isn’t just about the physical act. It’s about embracing an ancient practice of mindfulness, reconnecting with our primal roots, and carving out a slice of peace amidst the chaos.
Source Citation: https://www.wellandgood.com/silent-walks/
