It Is Solved By Walking

Lately, I’ve been doing a lot of writing. I’m completing papers for classes I’ve been taking as well as working on a new book. There are plenty of days when I forget to get up from my desk and get outdoors for a walk. So I wrote these ideas down to serve as a reminder (now if I just remember to look at what I’ve written)!

STEP ONE:  Find some time to get outdoors on your own; early morning would be especially good.  Find a park, trail, street, nature preserve, beach or special area you enjoy walking in.  If possible, look for someplace with plants, greenery and birds. 

STEP TWO:  Do plan on walking by yourself. Since you may be tempted to do this exercise with someone else at least agree to a silent walk so you don’t become distracted.

STEP THREE:  Take a small notebook or sketchpad and a pen or pencil with you.  You may choose to have a special point of focus or create an intention for your walk.

STEP FOUR:  Take several slow, deep breaths and begin walking at a slow, comfortable pace.  This is not the time for an aerobic walk! 

STEP FIVE:  Stop anytime you see, hear or smell something that interests you or you are curious about.  Touch leaves, feel sand, smell a flower.  Look at patterns, colors and designs in nature. Take notes on your thoughts, ideas and observations.

STEP SIX: Write down questions that go through your mind:  What is that plant called that smells like licorice?  Why are some blackbirds red-winged instead of blue or purple-winged?  Doodle; create mind maps or draw simple sketches. Take your time and stay present with your experience.

STEP SEVEN:  Return to the project you were working on.  Even though you may not have consciously been thinking about what you were stuck on, your walk probably provided you with a lot more than just exercise for your legs.
Next time you are stuck on what you’re writing or some other creative project, try taking “just a walk in the park” and see what happens!

If you find yourself needing some help juggling priorities in your life, contact me and request a GRATIS SESSION via phone or in person. Phone (800) 552-WRITE, that's (800) 552-9748 or write to me at susan@susanborkin.com to find out more.

Take good care, 

 

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