Late Summer Escapes: The wonderful world of Nature walks

I think by now we’re all aware of the benefits of walking. 

Most physicians, nutritionists, personal trainers, and others who are even slightly health-concerned understand and endorse walking.

Prevention Magazine website proclaims that walking is one of the most powerful ways to maintain a healthy weight, keep your joints strong, and live longer while also being one of the simplest forms of exercise. 

They go on to say, the health benefits of walking are endless. And experts agree by adding walking to your daily routine, you can greatly improve your overall physical and mental health.            

And, of course, we totally agree.  A brisk walk regularly is an efficient and effective way to honor and respect our body and mind.

But this post is not focused simply on fitness walking.   Getting in our steps, walking for health and fitness can also be accomplished indoors on a treadmill. 

We’re talking about a more engaged, outdoor practice.  The kind that’s great in any season, but it fits perfectly for transitional seasons.  Like late summer into early fall. 

It’s called Nature walking, hiking, or intentional walking.

Nature walks are not about checking your fitness watch to judge your pace. 

It’s more about noticing the beauty of nature.  It’s staying present and immersing yourself in the changing seasons; the cloud formations, the energy of squirrels or bunnies, and the curiousness of deer. It’s about summer flowers making space for fall foliage.   

Of course, just like with fitness walking, there’s tons of benefit to intentional Nature walking.  It’s a happy form of exercise and will pay you back with a renewed sense of clarity. It’s a pathway to peace of mind – and who among us doesn’t love peace of mind?

We also can’t forget what it does to reduce fatigue and increase better sleep.  Nature walks can help alleviate mental fatigue and improve sleep quality. 

In addition, nature walking provides:

Physical Exercise – You may not set a Personal Best (PB) while involved in a Nature Walk but you’ll surely improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and boost flexibility, all as a bonus benefit to enjoying the outdoors. 

As you stroll through city parks, country woodlands, or your neighborhood, you’ll find the gentle rhythm of walking has the power to raise your energy levels and improve your overall stamina.  Nature walking is still considered exercise but because your focus is different nature walking feels less like a chore and more like an adventure.       

Clarity and Mindfulness – Besides the simple appreciation of nature, this is our favorite benefit of Nature walking.  Nature walking has a remarkable ability to clear the mind and enhance mental clarity.  The sounds and sights of late summer can make us feel more mindful, more grounded in the present moment.  More clarity has the added benefit of better overall decision-making and a renewed sense of purpose in our daily lives.    

Peace of Mind – For us, peace of mind is a tie with clarity and mindfulness.  I don’t know about you but life is moving at a rapid rate for me.  There are times my mind feels like issues and concerns are lined up like race cars, all vying to “finish first.” 

Finding moments of tranquility and well-being is precious.  Late summer Nature walks provide a serene escape from everyday stressors.  The natural environment has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote feelings of happiness. 

As we walk, our breathing is deeper and more relaxed.  As we soak in the peacefulness of the outdoors, we improve our mood and develop a sense of calm. 

For many of us, we can feel the change in seasons – the hot days are fewer and fewer, and the evenings benefit from light jackets.  For those of us in the South, it’s still crazy hot but we know (or we pray) that within a few months, the heat will break for another year.

Whichever is your weather reality, we urge you to take advantage of Nature walking.  Grab a friend or go solo.  Find a trail, a park, water, or a city street and go exploring. 

Each step you take not only leads to better health but also, it’s a giant step toward a more peaceful, more fulfilling life.  ❤️