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“Practically speaking, a life that is vowed to simplicity, appropriate boldness, good humor, gratitude, unstinting work and play, and lots of walking brings us closer to the actually existing world and its wholeness.”

–Gary Snyder, from The Practice of the Wild

This essay could end there. The paragraph above contains so much to go on. But for the purposes of this piece, let’s zoom in on the part about “lots of walking.” Spring really is about to arrive, and I can hardly wait to meander the iceless paths.

I’m tired of spending my travel time with steel, rubber, ice and snow between the earth and me. I want to feel the steps I take and I want to pay closer attention to the inches, yards, & miles I travel between here and there.

Our town is small enough that, for most of us, many of our trips can be car-free. We are fortunate in Hastings to have beautiful parks, a hike/bike trail, and safe friendly neighborhoods. Yet we often zoom by in cars & trucks, moving too fast to notice the view or greet our neighbors.

You know those stories from our grandparents? …“When I was a kid, we walked five miles to school every day. Uphill. Both ways.” Those stories are important. We’ve learned about life from those people who themselves learned life thoroughly and at a slower pace. Walking in their shoes, as it were, may be enlightening. Much has changed since they were kids, sure. But perhaps these days it’s all that more important to slow down now & then. Even relaxing outdoors has benefits if walking isn’t for you.

Walking is good for us physically. It can strengthen muscles, burn fat, and improve cardiovascular fitness. They say just three 30-minute walks each week will help most people get in better shape. But also mentally and emotionally, walking can do wonders. A walk is a mini-vacation if you let it be.

Walk alone or with a friend. Hold a child’s hand and walk at her short-legged pace. Take a walk with a friend or relative who uses a wheelchair. Talk about life, not work. Think of all those who’ve walked this way before you. Take a camera and follow where it leads you. Explore a new path. Borrow a dog. Leave the asphalt. Go barefoot. Look up more.

Take walks. See where they take you.

“Walking, I am listening to a deeper way. Suddenly all my ancestors are behind me. Be still, they say. Watch and listen. You are the result of the love of thousands.”

-Linda Hogan, from Walking

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About the author: Amy Sandeen

Amy Sandeen is the Executive Director of Prairie Loft Center for Outdoor and Agricultural Learning. Amy grew up in Hastings, then lived in Minneapolis/ St. Paul for 18 years before returning to her roots. She is fascinated by the nature of humans and our relationship to the world.