Long before computers, smartphones, and the ever expanding world became what it is today, people used to walk for enjoyment. Men used to walk and use the time they did so to go deep into thought, or even breakthrough their writing blocks. Many great men including Aristotle, Henry David Thoreau, John Muir, and Charles Dickens all used walking in a different way. Aristotle used it to go deeper into thought, Thoreau and Muir loved nature, and Dickens used it to help him sleep.
Nature is another resource that is overlooked by many youth in today's world. As everything becomes based around big cities, it is important to remember how important nature really is. It gives us a break from the high stress, high-intensity environment that do not allow for a moment to breath. There is something so simple, yet so extraordinary about the beauty of all nature. Whether it is the ocean, the forest, the mountains, or desert, there is a part of nature for everybody.
This brings me to the top five reasons to go for a walk in the woods:
1. Meditation
Walking alone in nature is a form of meditation as it allows anyone to disconnect from their daily grind and leaves them with their thoughts.
2. Events Seem Less Stressful
Nothing appears as intense or upsetting when you are watching the sun peak out over the horizon in the morning.
3. Help Breakthrough Writer's Block
Take a page from William Wordsworth and walk in order to gain a new perspective. Writer's block affects everyone and walking will allow you to relax and see it from a different angle.
4. Develop New Ideas
Go for a walk with a pen and paper, and then write down whatever ideas you come up with. Your mind will wonder much more when it disconnects from the high-intensity business world.
5. See Natural Beauty
Nature is filled with beautiful scenery that can only be truly appreciated in person. Pictures just do not do it justice. There is nothing in this world more beautiful than fall morning air complimented by the sun coming over the mountain.
Nature and walking go together, and the benefits of combining the two can help anyone and everyone.
