On March 21, 2022, I committed to walking every day despite the weather and despite not wanting to, here’s why. I discovered Libby DeLana one day while scrolling through Instagram. Alex Elle made a post about her walking journey which was also inspired by Libby DeLana. I read her post and it led me to Libby’s book, “Do Walk-Navigating Earth, Mind & Body” and to her instagram handle: @parkhere. I decided right then and there that I, too, would embark on this journey. I thought, “I can totally do that, I love being outdoors”. I instantly downloaded the book on Audible and fell in love. 

The audible book is read by Libby DeLana herself which I loved. Her voice is absolutely soothing and calming. It was a reflection of the walking experience itself and her voice accompanied me on my many walks. She thoroughly expressed the healing nature of walking and even tells you the items you will need to embark on your own walking journey. She shares with us her morning walks, the process and her thoughts as she embarks on those journeys. I recall her explaining a time when she received gut wrenching terrible news and decided to walk. She walked for miles and miles that day, over eight miles, to deal with this terrible news. She explained how walking can transform your mind and body. It is so good for your mental health. She further explained that when you are in a bad mood, try walking.  Walking is a transformative experience and one of the easiest ways to incorporate exercise into your daily routines. Walking not only allows you to connect with the world around you, but it allows you to connect with yourself.  I felt like this was the perfect time to incorporate a walking lifestyle as I am still embarking on my own healing journey and taking care of my body. I thought it would be a great way for me to get outdoors and connect with the Earth. Ground myself.  I am so glad that I came across this audible book at this particular time of my life. 

When I am having a very hard time processing something, I make sure to get up and walk. I feel a wave of relief as if I was drinking a glass of water by the time I approach my second mile. The stress is gone and I am able to fully see the world around me. All of the feel good hormones kick in at this two mile mark for me. I feel light, confident and I sleep much better. Who doesn’t want that feeling every day of their life?

 I walk four miles a day now, at most. Sometimes I will put Nova in her stroller and we will just walk, rather it be at a park or around my home. She is my walking buddy and she enjoys being outdoors just as much as I do.  I am hoping to get up to at least six miles a day by the summer, but I am being gracious with myself. I am not pushing myself too much.

When I can, I’ll embark on morning walks. Lately it’s been more of an evening walk journey.  I highly recommend checking out this book if you are interested in kick starting your own walking journey. I also recommend listening to the audible version of this book. It’s only about 1:53 hours long. It’s a quick and easy listen that is sure to inspire you. 

Happy Walking!

Some Pictures From My Walks